Structure and Agency in Young People's Lives: Theory, Methods and Agendas

Structure and Agency in Young Peoples' Lives explores the interplay between agency and structure in the life course, rejecting the notion of young individuals as sole masters of their lives and emphasizing the role of social determinants. It provides a comprehensive map for understanding youths' biographies and trajectories, questions the responsibility of youth studies in understanding opportunities and constraints, and contributes to escaping the epistemological fallacy of late modernity.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 270 pages
\n Publication date: 13 May 2021
\n Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd
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Structure and Agency in Young Peoples' Lives is a groundbreaking collection that explores the intricate interplay between agency and structure in the life course of young individuals. It challenges the notion that young people are solely responsible for their lives and dismisses the idea that their social destinies are entirely out of their control. The book offers a comprehensive roadmap for understanding the biographies and trajectories of young people, questioning and reshaping the discourse on the role and responsibility of youth studies in comprehending how individuals navigate opportunities and constraints. By contributing to escaping the epistemological fallacy of late modernity, in which young people are held accountable for collective failures or inevitabilities, this collection appeals to a wide range of stakeholders, including students, researchers, professors, youth workers, and anyone engaged with or working for young people.

The book explores various perspectives on the possible combinations of agency and structure in the life course of young individuals. It rejects the notion that young people are the sole masters of their lives, emphasizing that their actions are influenced by a complex interplay of social, cultural, and economic factors. At the same time, it acknowledges that their social destinies are not entirely predetermined, as they can actively shape their lives through their choices and actions.

One of the key themes in the book is the concept of agency, which refers to the ability of individuals to make meaningful choices and take responsibility for their actions. The authors argue that young people have agency, but it is often constrained by structural factors such as social inequality, discrimination, and limited access to resources. They highlight the importance of recognizing and challenging these structural barriers to promote greater agency and empowerment among young people.

Another theme is the role of structure in shaping young people's lives. The authors argue that structures such as family, education, peer groups, and the broader social and economic environment play a significant role in determining opportunities and constraints for young people. They explore how these structures can either promote or hinder the development of agency and resilience among young people, and suggest strategies for promoting positive structural change.

The book also discusses the importance of narrative in understanding young people's lives. The authors argue that narratives, whether personal or collective, provide a framework for making sense of experiences and shaping identities. They explore how narratives can both perpetuate and challenge structural inequalities and promote social change.

Throughout the collection, the authors draw on a range of empirical research and case studies to illustrate their arguments and provide insights into the lives of young people. They offer practical recommendations for policymakers, educators, and practitioners working with young people, aimed at promoting greater agency, resilience, and social inclusion.

In conclusion, Structure and Agency in Young Peoples' Lives is a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the complex interplay between agency and structure in the lives of young individuals. The book challenges traditional notions of individual responsibility and promotes a more nuanced understanding of the factors that shape young people's lives. By promoting greater agency, resilience, and social inclusion, it contributes to a more equitable and just society for all.

\n Weight: 562g\n
Dimension: 161 x 241 x 23 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780367341770\n \n