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 Social Policy
Young People and Social Policy
Social policy is ubiquitous, pervasive and connects with young people either directly or indirectly everyday of their lives. But, social policy is another concept within youth studies for which it is difficult to produce a definitive version of its meaning. Both the terms social and policy are difficult to pin down. Meanings of policy usually invoke reference to a guide for taking future action and for making appropriate choices or decisions towards an identified end. But policy can also be defined as a method for outlining solutions to problems – for example, perceived problems involving young people. In this sense, policy offers direction and may indicate choices that are preferable in regard to meeting ends. But ...
