Young People and Long-Term Unemployment: Personal, Social, and Political Effects

Young People and Long-Term Unemployment explores the consequences of long-term unemployment for 18-34-year-olds in four European cities, finding negative impacts on life satisfaction, isolation, and financial independence, with variations across cities. Despite political participation, young unemployed people are often disconnected from politics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 178 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Young People and Long-Term Unemployment delves into the profound consequences of prolonged unemployment for the personal, social, and political well-being of young adults aged 18 to 34 residing in four European cities: Cologne (Germany), Geneva (Switzerland), Lyon (France), and Turin (Italy). By employing a comprehensive theoretical framework that encompasses insights from various levels, including contextual (macro), organizational (meso), and individual (micro), the study combines quantitative and qualitative data and analyses to arrive at several significant findings. Firstly, our research demonstrates that the experience of long-term unemployment exerts a detrimental influence on various aspects of young people's lives. In comparison to their employed peers, unemployed youth report lower levels of life satisfaction, greater feelings of isolation, and reduced financial independence. Secondly, while there are notable variations across the four cities, our study reveals that in some instances, the welfare state serves as a protective mechanism against unemployment. Despite widespread retrenchments, certain regions have managed to maintain robust social safety nets, providing a cushion for those affected by joblessness. Thirdly, although young unemployed individuals exhibit similar levels of political participation to their employed counterparts, they often feel disconnected from the political realm. This is particularly true when they have valid grievances to express regarding high youth unemployment, precarious working conditions, and bleak future prospects on the labor market. This book holds immense value for scholars engaged in the study of unemployment politics and youth politics, as well as researchers and educators in political science, sociology, and social psychology.

Weight: 350g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367638153