Career capabilities in disadvantaged youth

Robertson, P.J.

Abstract

Drawing on the "capability approach" of philosopher and economist Amartya Sen, this paper outlines a small empirical study to identify what kind of intervention may empower unemployed young people. Research interviews were conducted with 14 young people engaged in a support programme. Data was analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Participants reported detrimental effects of unemployment, and associated psycho-social difficulties prior to engagement in the programme. Team participation, overcoming fear, and diverse activities seemed to be powerful experiences during the programme. Growth in confidence, social re-engagement, and reconnection with life-career goals were outcomes of the programme. Whilst there was no single effective component, participants reacted uniquely to experiences, and became better able to deploy their existing personal resources as career capabilities to build their future.

Citation

Robertson, P. (2016, November). Career capabilities in disadvantaged youth. Paper presented at International Association for Educational and Vocational Guidance (IAEVG) Annual Conference 2016, Madrid, Spain

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Paper (unpublished)
• Conference Name: International Association for Educational and Vocational Guidance (IAEVG) Annual Conference 2016
• Conference Location: Madrid, Spain
• Start Date: Nov 15, 2016
• End Date: Nov 18, 2016
• Deposit Date: Apr 12, 2021
• Publicly Available Date: Apr 12, 2021
• Keywords: Youth unemployment; social justice; social inclusion; capability approach
• Public URL: http://researchrepository.napier.ac.uk/Output/2760619