Growing Up and Getting By: International Perspectives on Childhood and Youth in Hard Times

This book explores the impacts of austerity, economic crisis, and neoliberalism on children, young people, and adults, highlighting the experiences of poverty and precarity and the ways in which they cope and envision hopeful futures.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 372 pages
Publication date: 01 October 2022
Publisher: Bristol University Press

This comprehensive edited collection delves into the profound and far-reaching effects of austerity, economic crisis, and neoliberalism on children, young people, and adults. Through a rich tapestry of new, multidisciplinary research, the book offers a poignant platform for children, young people, and families to share their experiences and coping strategies in the face of socio-economic poverty and precarity across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. It sheds light on the devastating impact of these contemporary contexts on children, young people, and families, highlighting the myriad harms and inequalities they perpetuate. By examining the resilience and ingenuity of children, young people, and families as they navigate these challenging circumstances, the book underscores their capacity to care for one another and envision more hopeful socio-political futures.

The editors of this collection have assembled a diverse range of contributions from leading scholars and practitioners across the globe. The chapters explore a wide array of topics, including the impact of austerity on education, healthcare, and social services; the experiences of children and young people in care and foster care; the role of youth organizations and activism in challenging neoliberal policies; and the ways in which families cope with economic insecurity and social exclusion.

Through their insightful analyses and compelling narratives, the authors shed light on the complex and interconnected challenges faced by children, young people, and families in the era of austerity, economic crisis, and neoliberalism. The book provides valuable insights into the experiences of marginalized communities and offers practical recommendations for policymakers, educators, and social workers seeking to address these issues and promote greater social justice and equality.

In conclusion, this edited collection is a vital resource for anyone interested in understanding the impact of austerity, economic crisis, and neoliberalism on children, young people, and families. It offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary perspective on these pressing issues, providing a rich tapestry of research, analysis, and personal stories that shed light on the experiences and struggles of those most affected by these processes. By promoting greater awareness and empathy, this book contributes to the ongoing efforts to build more inclusive and resilient societies for all.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781447352907