16.7 2nd and 3rd years Dr. J. Wyn. Normally 25 points of first year Sociology. First semester A 1-hour lecture and a 90-minute seminar per week. Student completing this subject should:

• understand the social construction of the category of youth;
• be able to identify the formative experiences and reference groups shaping you peopleí s own construction of social identity;
• understand the processes and outcomes of policy formation affecting young peopleí s futures;
• be able to identify key discourses and issues of change specific to youth and youth policy in Australia.

An examination of representations of youth within the professional and popular literature. A review of major research studies, policy discourses (eg. post-compulsory pathways, homelessness, health and legal issues) and young peopleí s responses to changes impacting on their lives and futures. Essay work or equivalent totalling 5,000 words.