Youth Trends in Hong Kong 2004-2006

 

The newly published Youth Trends in Hong Kong 2004-2006 is a compilation and analysis of statistical data and research findings about Hong Kong young people. Data is organized according to six areas of concern: (1) population and family; (2) education and potential development; (3) ability to be economically independent; (4) social participation; (5) physical and mental health; (6) behavioral health. There is a review of the ways in which education, employment and social participation are affected by the changing social and economic environment and of problems such as attempted suicide, drug abuse and youth criminality.

In addition, the book features findings of two youth surveys. The first is a survey of “Indicators of Youth Values” which has been conducted annually by the Youth Research Centre since 1997. It attempts to reveal the trends in Hong Kong young people’s values. The second is an “International Youth Survey” which compares the characteristics and attitudes of Hong Kong youth with those of youth in Japan, Korea, Sweden, Germany and the United States. The concluding chapter is a discussion which suggests ten directions for policy change which youth workers and the authorities concerned are urged to consider.