Approaching Youth Studies: Being, Becoming, Belonging

This concise yet thorough introduction to the sociological study of young people exposes students to the historical and mythic foundations of the discipline before looking at the cultural and educational aspects of youth today. With an exploration of methodology and sociological theories, along with interdisciplinary research evidence, the text wards off the stereotype of the ’stormy youth’ while providing context and analytical commentary on the most critical and interesting issues in the field. Unique in its approach and with the most up-to-date research and analysis available, Approaching Youth Studies offers a distinct perspective on the study of youth.

Kate Tilleczek is the Canada Research Chair in Child/Youth Cultures and Transitions, an associate professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of Prince Edward Island, and a research scientist at the Community Health Systems Group at the Hospital for Sick Children. She is a former school teacher and is a sociologist who has been studying and teaching the social and cultural realities and experiences of childhood and youth for 20 years. This program of research demonstrates a commitment to work with and for young people across many cultures and contexts. Dr Tilleczek’s research has practical applications for both education and health. She is particularly interested in issues of marginality and the ways in which education is related to the developmental health of youth.