The purpose of this exploratory study was to listen to young people's descriptions of their experiences in and understandings of their relationships with the important adults in their lives using relational–cultural theory as the guiding framework. The authors conducted 7 focus groups with ethnically and socioeconomically diverse children and adolescents ages 7 to 18 years (N = 91) who were participants in a range of community groups. A thematic analysis of the focus group transcripts highlighted the high value these youth placed on respect, mutuality, and authenticity in their relationships with adults. These youth also poignantly described their desire for strong relationships with adults and the barriers that unfortunately and too often seemed to get in the way.
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