Over the recent years, employment opportunities for teens to early 20-somethings have fallen. In 2011, only 26% of teens between the ages 16 to 19 are employed, which 45% less than employment in 2000. This is the lowest rate on record since post-World War II era.
The Brookings Reports show that non-hispanics whites and young people who come from higher income families are more likely to find jobs than others. The report also showed that young women were more likely to be hired than young men.
High school is a key steps in a children's education, but many employed don't see high school as nearly enough to prepare students for a job. Students who completely high school in 2012 and did not attend go straight into college, 70% tried to get a job but less than half were successful. This is the lowest number on record.
The Brookings reports blames this all time low number on the education system. Stating that high school should better prepare students for college coursework. The reports also state that two-year degrees and apprenticeships should be a bigger priority in coming years for those who don't make to a four year college.
http://money.cnn.com/2014/03/14/news/economy/youth-employment/index.html?iid=SF_E_Lead
Another reason for the decreased rate of job finding could be the increase in minimum wages across the country. We know that many of the minimum wage workers are teenagers and quite possibly the rise in the minimum allowable hourly wage has priced out some of the entry level work that was more prevalent a few years ago.
ReplyDeleteThere has been a decline in the acceptability, I think, of teens gong straight into the work force after high school. More and more we find that the educational qualifications required for most skilled jobs are increasing, with a declining ability to "learn on the job." I do find it interesting that young women are more likely to be hired than young men, though this data seems consistent with the increasing labor force participation of women.
ReplyDeleteI think that this overall unemployment for teenagers and young adults is an issue that we do need to confront students at young ages. If we provide more encouragement with students to pursue passions in apprenticeship programs or 2 year degrees, I think we will have a higher participation rate in the labor force.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Chris, the increase of minimum wage over the course of time has had an impact on the amount of landing a job. I also agree with the article, that two year degrees and apprenticeships should be a bigger priority. This will better/further the skills of those who can't afford college and could overall help the economy.
ReplyDeleteThe increase in minimum wage is a major factor i believe in the decrease young teen unemployment. I also agree that a bigger emphasis should be put on internships and apprenticeships throughout High School rather then just in college. I believe that if more emphasis is put on internships and apprenticeships more employers will be more likely to hire young individuals.
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