The World’s Youth: Adolescence in Eight Regions of the Globe

The life stage of adolescence now occurs in most corners of the world, but it takes different forms in different regions. Peers, with such a central role in Western adolescence, play a comparatively minor role in the lives of Arabic and South Asian adolescents. Emotional turmoil and individuation from family occur in some societies but not others. Adolescent sexual revolutions are sweeping through Japan and Latin America. In this book, scholars from eight regions of the world describe the distinct nature of adolescence in their regions. They draw on research to address standard topics regarding this age - family and peer relationships, schooling, preparation for work, physical and mental health - and show how these have a different cast across societies. As a whole, the book depicts how rapid global change is dramatically altering the experience of the adolescent transition, creating new opportunities and challenges for adolescents, parents, teachers, and concerned others.

• Authors based reports on research mostly in regional languages/sources: most authors are indigenous to area described, with intimate knowledge • The world now a global village, we must recognize how adolescence differs across different societies, not just Western ones • This book examines adolescents’ lives and prospects for adulthood in a changing, world-wide context

1. The kaleidoscope of adolescence: experiences of the world’s youth at the beginning of the 21st century B. Bradford Brown, Reed W. Larson and T. S. Saraswathi; 2. Demographic trends affecting youth around the world Elizabeth Fussell and Margaret E. Greene; 3. Adolescence in sub-Saharan Africa: an image constructed from Africa’s triple inheritance A. Bame Nsamenang; 4. Adolescence in India: street urchins or Silicon Valley millionaires? Suman Verma and T. S. Saraswathi; 5. Adolescence in China and Japan: adapting to a changing environment Harold W. Stevenson and Akane Zusho; 6. Youth in Southeast Asia: living within the continuity of tradition and the turbulence of change Madelene Santa Maria; 7. Arab adolescents facing the future: enduring ideals and pressures to change Marilyn Booth; 8. Adolescents in Russia: surviving the turmoil and creating a brighter future Anna Stetsenko; 9. Adolescence in Latin America: facing the future with skepticism Carlos Welti Chanes; 10. Adolescents in Western countries in the 21st century: vast opportunities - for all? Jeffrey Jensen Arnett; 11. Adolescence in global perspective: an agenda for social policy T. S. Saraswathi and Reed W. Larson.

‘The book emphasizes the importance of using culturally appropriate research methods when researching human development. the goal of promoting understanding of adolescence in a global context is well met. The book will enrich several disciplines, some of which include human development, anthropology and cross-cultural studies.’ Journal of Adolescence

‘… the book is a mine of information … the common structure for each chapter is immensely helpful for readers to compare and contrast as they work through material from eight different ‘regions’. Youth & Policy

‘In my opinion, this book should be included in the readings of every researcher and student interested in adolescent development.’ International Journal of Behavioural Development

‘… a welcome contribution towards highlighting the need to study this vital segment of the population. it will prove of help to many professionals working in the mental health field including psychologists, social workers and health planners. It will also benefit educationalists, human resource and community developers as well as those involved in the current cultural and political discourse.’ European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry