One-on-one conversations with young people at a youth program should

• A. should never happen at a youth program
• B. should happen in private spaces
• C. be encouraged to build trust
• D. be allowed if the youth asks

Answer: (A)

Building trust through supportive, appropriately supervised one-on-one conversations is essential. When a staff member takes the time to listen respectfully and talk privately with a youth, it helps the young person feel heard, valued, and safe to share concerns or questions. The value comes from the relationship itself and the opportunity to identify needs, offer guidance, and connect youth with resources.

To keep these conversations healthy and safe, they should occur in a setting that is open and appropriate for supervision, with clear boundaries about confidentiality and what must be shared if there’s any risk of harm. Youth should be informed about what can stay confidential and what information needs to be reported, and program policies should guide how follow-up is handled. These conversations aren’t about secrecy or isolation; they’re about building trust within safe, professional guidelines.