This thoroughly revised new edition looks at the nature of social networks, their changing configurations, and the forces of influence they unleash in shaping the life experiences of young people between the ages of 12 and 25 years.
The author draws on both social and psychological research to apply network thinking to the social relations of youth across the domains of school, work and society. Network thinking examines the pattern and nature of social ties, and analyses how networks channel information, influence and support with effects on a wide range of life experiences. The book comprises eleven chapters, which contain discussion on key topics, such as youth transitions, network analysis, friendship, romantic ties, peer victimization, antisocial behaviour, youth risk-taking, school motivation, career influence, youth citizenship, and community organizations for young people. Chapters contain discussions of practical ways in which schools can provide support, and suggestions for youth organizations on how to assist young people to become effective citizens.
Preface. Introduction and Overview. Part I: Networks and Young People. Young People and Development. The Science of Social Networks. Part II: Social Networks. Networks and groups. Friends and Mates. Loners and Outsiders. Part III: Social Influences. Antisocial Behaviour. Academic Motivation. Smoking, Drinking, and Drug use. Part IV: Social Support. Social Support in Schools. Youth and Community Organizations. Conclusion: Networked Youth Futures.
Biography
John Cotterell has worked with young people for most of his adult life, as a high school teacher, youth worker, and university teacher and researcher. He has published many journal articles and book chapters in the fields of adolescence, child development, youth leisure, education, psychology, counselling, and environmental psychology. He is married with three adult children.
'John Cotterell is the principle pioneer of an approach that I am sure is going to prove extraordinarily important for the field. Along the way, he provides a genuinely useful and wide-ranging review of adolescent social relations and their significance. I will certainly want this book on my shelves and I have no doubt but that this wish will be shared by every researcher/teacher in this area.' - Nicholas Emler, University of Surrey, UK
'The book offers a broad perspective on adolescents' peer relations in contexts, which gives the reader a fascinating overview of the complexity and importance of network analyses and the implications for designing developmental contexts (e.g. the school). The book offers a view on adolescents' strengths that can help to facilitate positive outcomes for as many adolescents as possible' - Dr. Rainer K. Silbereisen, University of Jena, Germany
