Abstract Thirteen preservice youth work students participated in learning experiences designed to enhance literacies in mental health. The aim of this grounded theory study was to explicate the process of mental health literacy enhancement and application to child and youth care practice. Sixty-two unique sources of data were used in analyses. Findings suggest that mental health literacies are intertwined with the process of developing a professional identity. In this article, the subcategory de/valuing youth work is explained and involves participants managing a confusing role, adopting a misfit stance, battling and building a seat at the interprofessional table, and valuing professional contributions. Implications for professional identity development, professionalization and mental health education are offered.

中文翻译：

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贬低/重视青年工作：揭示职业认同发展中的紧张关系，同时提高和应用心理健康素养

摘要 13 名职前青年工作学生参加了旨在提高心理健康素养的学习体验。这项扎根理论研究的目的是阐明心理健康素养的提高和应用于儿童和青少年护理实践的过程。分析中使用了 62 个独特的数据来源。研究结果表明，心理健康素养与职业身份的形成过程交织在一起。在本文中，解释了贬低/评估青年工作的子类别，并涉及参与者管理一个令人困惑的角色、采取不适应的立场、在跨专业的桌子上争取和建立席位，以及重视专业贡献。提供了对职业认同发展、职业化和心理健康教育的影响。