Trust, Respect and Friendship: The Key Attributes of Significant Others in the Lives of Young Working Men

A sample of 146 male construction industry apprentices (predominantly young men) in Australia self-reported on their significant relationships, as well as the key attributes of these relationships. The findings indicated that the young men shared events, disclosed confidences and looked for help and support from family, romantic partners and close friends. The key attributes of these relationships were trust, respect and friendship. Of concern are the 10 per cent of apprentices who are at risk of social isolation and who did not have anyone to turn to for support. (Contains 1 figure and 3 tables.)