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.
Youth Cultures
Youth Cultures
When discussing the nature of youth culture researchers often employ a wide understanding of the term to mean a ‘way of life’ that includes ideas as well as the material and social processes individuals and groups employ in their social relationships (see Hall and Jefferson, 1976). In particular we are interested in the ideas, values, attitudes, language and norms that young people use in their daily lives. The concept of subculture is used to denote a distinctive way of life created by young people that is a subset of wider cultural practices derived from, yet often in conflict with, the existing parent or wider culture.
Researchers explore how pre-existing cultures can constrain and regulate young people's lives as they grow up. How young ...