Lifeworld of Young People: A Systems -- Theoretical Perspective (From Social World of Adolescents: International Perspectives, P 57-64, 1989, Klaus Hurrelmann and Uwe Engel, eds. -- See NCJ-120206)

• NCJ Number: 120210
• Author(s): D Palazzo
• Date Published: 1989
• Length: 8 pages
• Sale Source: Walter de Gruyter & Co
• Publication Type: Research (Theoretical)
• Language: English
• Country: West Germany (Former)

Annotation

The "lifeworld" of adolescents is characterized by young people's large potential for reproducing actions on a symbolic level, many of which appear contradictory to adult observers.

Abstract

Lifeworld is not something given to adolescents through experience, and it cannot be viewed as a social matter of course. The experiences and behavior of young people are immediately connected with institutions that direct and influence possibilities for action; yet, it is characteristic for young people to create new possibilities that differ from those they already possess. The lifeworld of adolescents is complex and offers many possibilities for action, and a major problem young people face involves defining the symbolic level of their actions. Young people's symbolic universe stands in contrast to their actions, with the many problem solutions they implement appearing contradictory to adult observers. Since normative structures of action have consumed adolescents' resources, the power of youth to assert themselves derives from their ability to reproduce or restore new symbols in reference to their actions. The encounter between generations, if there is an encounter, only happens on a symbolic level. Young people respond to the insecurity of adults by disorienting them without making clear references to their actions. On the other hand, young people continually redefine their own identity which permanently creates differences and variety, produces a new level of symbols, and keeps redesigning a new symbolic environment for actions. 3 references.