Junge, Junge*!

Strengthening boys*' work in Berlin-Neukölln

Boys* are regularly confronted with gender-specific role models. They are often expected to show strength, to control their emotions, to assert themselves in groups and to appear dominant. There is often little room for weakness, insecurity, and a sensitive handling of emotions as well as one's own psychological or physical limitations. In recent years, a critical study of the demands of masculinity has been established in social science research and in the discourse of social pedagogy. With the project Junge, Junge*! cultures interactive e.V. wanted to make this usable for gender-reflective social work in Neukölln and sensitize actors in youth work in the district. It was important for us to consider the interaction of different disadvantaging and privileging levels.

Encourage

In various formats, boys* in Neukölln were encouraged to critically examine masculinity and gender roles. Approaches from gender-reflective violence prevention were also introduced. In addition, we carried out several boys* action days in cooperation with AG Jungen*.

Pooling resources

The already existing network of gender-reflective work with boys in Neukölln was strengthened and expanded to include other appropriate actors.

Networking

Various offers of gender-reflective youth cultural work for schools, recreational facilities and street social work were developed and implemented in different Neukölln facilities.

Passing on knowledge

The project team has qualified employees from youth (social) work and schools for gender-reflective work with boys* in advanced training and further education and accompanied them with expert advice and supervision. In cooperation with the Social Pedagogical Training Institute Berlin-Brandenburg (SFBB), the certified further training "discrimination-sensitive and gender-reflective work with boys*" was also offered. In addition, several regional professional days were offered and a final brochure was published.