Summary
Contents
What is youth? How do we understand youth in its social and cultural context?In this timely and sought-after title, Cieslik and Simpson provide a concise and readily accessible introduction to the interdisciplinary field of youth studies. Drawing upon the latest research and developments in the field, as well as discussing the fundamental ideas underlying the disciplines as a whole, it offers a comprehensive yet unpacked understanding of youth as a social phenomenon. Illuminating the many abstract and contested concepts within youth studies, this book offers explanations to questions such as: • How might we define youth? • How can we understand young people in relation to their social identities and practices? • What is the relationship between youth and social class? • How do youth cultures develop? • How can we understand youth in a globalized perspective? Key Concepts in Youth Studies stands out as a natural companion for students on youth studies, sociology, criminology and social science programmes. It will also be useful for youth practitioners such as social workers and teachers. Key Concepts in Youth Studies stands out as a natural companion for students on youth studies, sociology, criminology and social science programmes. It will also be useful for practitioners in area of social work and youth and community development.
Young People and Homelessness
Young People and Homelessness
When one thinks of youth homelessness images such as those from the critically acclaimed motion picture Slumdog Millionaire (2008) may come to mind. But one must resist falling into the trap of thinking about child and youth homelessness as a phenomenon that is found only in faraway developing countries. Unfortunately, homelessness is something young people in the UK and other Western countries also experience (Smith, 2009; Van Der Ploeg and Sholte, 1997). ‘Youth homelessness remains a significant issue across the UK. It can be estimated that at least 78–80,000 young people experienced homelessness in 2008/9 across the UK’ – this figure ‘includes both young people who are formally accepted as homeless under the statutory definition as well ...
