This book comprises the first nationwide study based on face-to-face interviews with 5000 youth to capture the popular mood of this important demographic segment of contemporary India. It records their perceptions of various issues, ranging from modernity, development, globalization and unemployment, to leisure and lifestyle, social networks and family, and their hopes and aspirations for the future. While it breaks some myths about them, on one hand, it helps strengthen some commonly shared perceptions about them, on the other.

Indian Youth in a Transforming World: Attitudes and Perceptions underlines that Indian youth reflect an authentic multiplicity of aspirations, ‘world views’ and interest, quite like the rich tapestry of India's diversity. It indicates that they are a mix of continuity with change. However, they stand distinct in many ways from the youth the world over. This book is also likely to break some myths related to the youth, opening avenues for new debates. For example, the study reveals that there is hardly any decline in interest in politics between two generations.

The book is invaluable for professionals in advertising and other media sectors and all those involved in market research. Students and teachers of specialized psychology courses, behavioral sociology, political sociology, social change and modernization will also find it useful.

Trust and Circles of Belonging

Trust and circles of belonging
  • The ‘friends circle’ mostly consists of those from the same gender, caste and religion. If one does have friends from outside this ‘circle’ it would primarily be those belonging to other castes, followed by those of the opposite sex and finally those from a different religion. The probability of having persons from the opposite gender, other caste or religion in one's core peer group is highest amongst the urban youth, those with a higher Socio Economic Status (SES) and higher education levels.
  • The intensity of social trust that youth demonstrate is very stark within their immediate social circle of belonging. This is indicative of the nature of social interaction that youth in India are exposed to.
  • Limited discrimination ...
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