The purpose of the module is to explore research examining young people and the dilemmas they face in contemporary society. This multi-disciplinary module will draw upon research linked to Youth Studies, Criminology, Sociology, Psychology and Social Policy. Its principal aim is to provide students with an in-depth, research-based and up-to-date understanding of youth culture and transitions in Britain. It brings together what has been described as 'the two traditions' of youth research in the UK: the study of youth culture, sub-culture and identity and the study of young people's transitions to adulthood. This module will critically examine the ways in which socially constructed categories together with structural inequalities impact upon young people. As media and political rhetoric becomes more intolerant towards young people in society, this module intends to challenge the criminalisation of growing up. As such, this module further examines the position of young people within the criminal justice system: critically examining and evaluating both historical and current youth justice legislation, linking our policies to our understanding of youth crime and anti-social behaviour.
This module will investigate the multitude of dilemmas faced by young people placing them within the political context regarding the obligations faced by the government under both national legislation and international conventions. As such, students will be required to critically analyse each topic covered evaluating to what extent, the Children Act 1989, 2004, Children and Young Persons Act 2008 together with UK commitment to the United Nations Convention of the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) is being met.