166-083 Sociology of Youth & Youth Policy

Formerly available as 166-250/350. Students who have completed 166-250/350 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Usually one first-year subject in Sociology, Political Science or related fields.

This subject introduces major sociological approaches to youth, and explores ways different groups of young people experience and interact with the state through examining youth policy. The subject locates youth experience in changing forms of socialisation, with reference to school, work, family, gender and sexual identities. It examines ways youth is constructed as a category of policy, discussing contemporary issues such as youth homelessness, health and legal issues. It focuses on young people's responses, exploring ways young people can be understood as social actors. On completion of this subject students should have a knowledge of contemporary sociological approaches to youth; have a knowledge of contemporary youth policy, with reference to current Australian debates; and have an ability to critically evaluate areas of contemporary youth policy.

• demonstrate critical thinking and analytic skills, through research and written communication;

• be able to communicate knowledge intelligibly and economically, both orally and in writing;

• display awareness and understanding of the social, ethical and cultural contexts of research and of our place as researchers.

A research essay of 1000 words 25% (due mid-semester), a research essay of 2000 words 50% (due at the end of semester), and a take-home exam 25% (due in the examination period).

• P Dwyer and J Wyn, Education and Risk: Facing the Future. Routledge/Falmer 2001.
• J Wyn and R White, Rethinking Youth. Allen and Unwin 1997.
• R White and J Wyn, Youth and Society: Exploring the Social Dynamics of the Youth Experience. Oxford University Press 2004.