9: Youth and the “Real World”

The young people I've interacted with through this study and my career all share a common focus: preparing for the “real world.” They are acutely aware of the tailored environments they live within and invest significant effort in getting ready for their careers and the independence that comes with them. The phrase “the real world” itself is curious, implying that their current experiences aren't genuine or impactful within their communities. If they don't participate in real-world activities, then what types of activities and realties do they live in? This echoes a deficit perspective on teenagers, highlighting a disconnect between how they perceive themselves and how adults view reality. Young people often feel they have valuable insights and experiences that should be recognized, while adults may overlook or underestimate their capabilities. This gap can lead to frustration for young people as they strive to be seen as capable and relevant but instead feel dismissed or not taken seriously by adults and their communities.