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Youth and Society: Exploring the Changing Relationship and Social Exclusion of Young People
Introduction
Young people today face a variety of challenges in their journey to adulthood. While it is easy to focus solely on the behaviours, attitudes, or issues of young people themselves, scholars such as Wyn and White (1997) argue that a deeper understanding comes from examining the changing relationship between young people and society. This essay explores this viewpoint by analysing how social, economic, and political factors shape young people`s experiences. It also investigates how certain groups of young people are excluded from full participation in society, especially those facing poverty, discrimination, or systemic inequalities. This essay will evaluate theoretical approaches to youth, analyse the child’s role in family and community, and critically discuss social exclusion and its impacts.
Theoretical Approaches to Understanding Youth
Several theoretical approaches have emerged to explain the experience of youth. One of the key perspectives is the transition approach, which sees youth as a period of preparation for adulthood. This model focuses on education, employment, and independence, often assuming a linear path (Furlong & Cartmel, 2007). However, this view has been criticised for overlooking structural inequalities that affect transitions for different groups.
Alternatively, the cultural approach views young people as active agents who create their own identities and subcultures in response to societal pressures (Hall & Jefferson, 1993). This perspective recognises youth as a time of resistance and creativity, rather than mere preparation for adulthood.
More recently, social generation theory (Wyn & Woodman, 2006) has been influential. It suggests that young people today face new challenges due to globalisation, changing labour markets, and technology. As a result, youth cannot be understood simply as a stage of life, but as a socially constructed category, shaped by the broader environment.
Each of these theories emphasises the importance of context. Rather than focusing only on young people’s choices or actions, it is necessary to explore how society, policy, and history shape opportunities and exclusions.
Youth and Society: A Changing Relationship
The relationship between youth and society has changed significantly over time. Traditionally, young people were expected to follow a clear path: finish school, find a job, and start a family. However, economic changes such as the decline in stable employment and rising costs of living have disrupted this path (MacDonald et al., 2005).
In many societies, education has been extended, and young people are staying in education longer. While this can offer opportunities, it also means delayed independence and often leads to precarious employment after graduation (Standing, 2011). This can result in frustration and feelings of exclusion.
Furthermore, technological developments have created new forms of communication and expression for youth, but have also raised concerns about surveillance, online bullying, and mental health (Livingstone & Helsper, 2007).
Society often views young people through a lens of concern and control. For example, media frequently portrays youth as problematic or dangerous, especially young people from minority or disadvantaged backgrounds (Cohen, 1972). This contributes to moral panics and can lead to policies that exclude rather than support young people.
