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.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 270 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

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 in working with and 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 decisions and take actions that shape their lives. The authors argue that agency is not a fixed trait but rather a dynamic process that can be influenced by various factors, including personal characteristics, social context, and historical circumstances. Young people, in particular, are often portrayed as being highly agency, as they have the capacity to make independent choices and pursue their dreams and aspirations.

However, the book also highlights the structural constraints that shape young people's lives. These constraints can include social inequalities, economic disparities, and institutional barriers that limit their opportunities and access to resources. For example, young people from marginalized communities may face systemic discrimination and limited access to education and employment opportunities, which can hinder their ability to achieve their goals.

The authors argue that understanding the interplay between agency and structure is crucial for developing effective policies and interventions that support the well-being and development of young people. They suggest that youth studies should play a vital role in shaping the discourse on youth policy and practice, by challenging dominant narratives and promoting a more nuanced and empathetic understanding of young people's experiences.

The book also explores the role of institutions, such as schools, families, and the workplace, in shaping young people's lives. It argues that these institutions can either promote or hinder young people's agency and development, depending on their policies, practices, and attitudes. For example, schools that provide a supportive and inclusive learning environment can help young people develop their skills and abilities, while families that prioritize education and social mobility can provide valuable resources and opportunities for their children.

In conclusion, Structure and Agency in Young Peoples' Lives is a groundbreaking collection that offers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the life course of young individuals. It challenges the notion that young people are solely responsible for their lives and emphasizes the complex interplay between agency and structure that shapes their experiences. By promoting a more empathetic and inclusive understanding of young people's lives, the book contributes to developing effective policies and interventions that support their well-being and development.

Weight: 440g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367747978