The Sociology of Youth: A New Handbook for a Changing World
SYDNEY, MELBOURNE, CAPE TOWN July 9, 2024: The Young and Resilient Research Centre at Western Sydney University proudly hosted the launch of the Research Handbook on the Sociology of Youth (Edward Elgar Press), a new publication co-edited by scholars Prof Judith Bessant, Prof Philippa Collin, and Dr Patrick O’Keeffe. This significant event, held virtually on July 9, 2024, brought together a diverse global audience to celebrate the handbook which features 53 authors, representing 7 continents, and includes work by academics, activists, and young people.
Prof Philippa Collin, Co-Director of the Young and Resilient Research Centre and Handbook co-editor, was the Master of Ceremonies. Prof Collin explained that this handbook, spanning 27 chapters, “not only reflects the challenges and opportunities faced by young people globally but also offers fresh perspectives and insights into youth studies”. An overview of the collection’s significance was delivered by Prof Emerita Raewyn Connell, University of Sydney, who wrote the foreword to the book. Prof Connell believes this Handbook is a “really important intellectual shift in the field of study” in part, due to its inclusion of the history and influence of the Global South.
During the launch, the audience heard from the following panelists who all co-authored the book and shared their expertise and hopes for the publication’s impact:
- Prof Judith Bessant, RMIT University and Handbook co-editor
- Dr Adam Cooper, Human Sciences Research Council (South Africa)
- Dr Mandy Henningham, University of Sydney
- Dr Kathryn Daley, RMIT University
- Anhaar Kareem, Make it 16
Together this group also shared their perspectives on the impact on this Handbook on both the Global North and Global South, and emphasised the need to decolonise and Indigenise the Sociology of Youth. They also spoke about the value of such a collection to teaching and practice in youth work, and shared ideas for where researchers and practitioners can continue to involve young people.
After the discussion, the panel also participated in a Q&A, which was moderated by Dr. Patrick O'Keeffe of RMIT, who was the co-editor of the Handbook.
The official launch was also attended by Distinguished Professor Johanna Wyn from the University of Melbourne. Professor Wyn, who is a leading world expert in the sociology of youth, praised the handbook for its accessibility, comprehensive coverage, and timely relevance. She highlighted the importance of working alongside young people as a priority and said of the handbook, “researchers are being asked to be reflexive in their research practices and to pay attention to young people as they do so”.
The Research Handbook on the Sociology of Youth is now available for purchase, offering valuable insights and perspectives for academics, practitioners, and young people engaged in youth studies. Watch the book launch recording above.
