Date of Award
2024
Document Type
Thesis
Publisher
Edith Cowan University
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
School
School of Arts and Humanities
First Supervisor
Vicki Banham
Second Supervisor
Nikki Rajakaruna
Abstract
This study explores the long-term careers of professional youth workers in Australia with the aim of developing a relevant theory of career grounded in their experiences. Despite the importance of youth work, only a small number of studies has been undertaken on youth work careers both in Australia and internationally. Previous research by the author in 2021 contributed to understanding the long-term youth work career for graduate youth workers in Western Australia, but further data are needed to build a transferable theory or framework. The research problem is clear: what does a career in youth work entail and how can the experiences of long-term youth work careers be better understood through a developed theoretical framework?
To address this gap, the central research question is: ‘How can the experiences of professional youth workers inform a relevant theory of career?’. Through a qualitative grounded theory research design and methodology, the study examined the motivations, challenges, growth, practice methods and other complex dynamics that shape long-term careers dedicated to supporting young people. Interviews and post-interview surveys were conducted with 30 youth workers across diverse contexts in the Australian youth work field, including both graduate and non-graduate youth workers to allow for comparison. The study applied Straussian grounded theory principles to inductively develop theory grounded in the data. Guided by an ecological systems conceptual framework, the study examined participants’ interactions in multiple societal contexts. Data collection and analysis generated conceptual codes, categories and theoretical concepts, leading to the core category of transformation and the resulting grounded theory. The core category of transformation encompassed four key phases: intrinsic drivers, growth, sustainability and legacy. This formed the basis for the proposed Transformative Career Theory (TCT), which reconceptualises careers as evolving, cyclical journeys centred on continuous personal and professional transformation. The findings portray the profound personal and professional journeys of dedicated youth workers driven by their commitment to effecting enduring positive change.
TCT challenges conventional linear career models, instead emphasising multidimensionality across factors like values, applied knowledge, resilience and impact. The theory highlights the profound dedication of youth work professionals and resulting multilayered transformations they both drive and experience, from empowering young people, to strengthening communities and gradually progressing society, all while experiencing transformation within themselves. TCT advances conceptual perspectives on motivations, identity, growth and empowerment underpinning careers of social purpose, with potential for applicability across related service-oriented fields.
The findings will be useful for youth workers’ career education, professional development and wellbeing, management practices and training curricula. They may also benefit understanding of careers in related fields. Most importantly, this study contributes vital knowledge about youth work as a profession and viable long-term career. Further research is needed to substantiate the theory, examine its relevance to other professions and further develop practical applications to support transformative careers in youth work and beyond.
DOI
10.25958/j4ex-2656
Access Note
Access to this thesis is embargoed until 21st December 2025
Recommended Citation
Sutcliffe, J. (2024). Transformative career theory: A grounded theory study into the long-term careers of Australian youth workers. Edith Cowan University. https://doi.org/10.25958/j4ex-2656