The zone of precarity and discourses of vulnerability

Furlong, A. (2007) The zone of precarity and discourses of vulnerability. Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities, 381, pp. 101-121.

Abstract

This article focuses on the way in which NEET has been used to conceptualise vulnerability among young people in the UK. It describes the origin and development of NEET, highlights the difficulties and ambiguities associated with the term, describes its prevalence and explores some of the issues that arise from attempts to capture precarious situations. While the need to capture the insecurity that characterises many transitional experiences is recognised, it is argued that in policy terms NEET is a flawed concept that tries to merge a heterogeneous mix of young people, some being extremely disadvantaged while others are able to exercise choices. It is argued that more imaginative ways are needed to hold policy makers to account and that there is a need to place a greater emphasis on stimulating demand for youth labour rather than focus on alleged skill deficits.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Furlong, Professor Andy
• Authors: Furlong, A.
• Subjects: H Social Sciences > HM Sociology
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Education
• Journal Name: Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities
• ISSN: 0023-4044