Teen-Age Culture in Contemporary Britain and Europe

Abstract

Youth culture of Western Europe shows marked similarities with the United States and is almost cer tainly a product of similar social and economic influences. In the postwar years, new problems have arisen partly as a result of the comparative affluence and security now enjoyed by greater numbers than heretofore and partly because of the pace at which these changes have occurred. Uncertainty of role and status results sometimes in an acute alienation be tween the generations. Repudiation of traditional values has produced rebellious behavior of an unprecedented kind, and there has been a sharp increase in violence and hooliganism among certain sections of the community. At the same time, a tendency toward political apathy, distrust of officialdom, and the pursuit of short-term hedonistic goals are further indication of youth's fundamental dissatisfaction. In all countries, com mercial interests have exploited this situation by providing a specialized teen-age market, and this has further emphasized the differing attitudes of young and elders. The literary field has witnessed a corresponding protest against "the Establish ment," whereby many of the frustrations and, also, the stifled idealisms of youth have been given expression. The mingled hostility and confusion of young people presents educational agencies with a vital challenge and opportunity for constructive work.