The old adage "idle hands are the devil's tools" has never been more true than in the face of our current economic slump. The upcoming generation of young people is not only having a hard time finding jobs to keep them busy after class, but they're also seeing less benefit in working hard to finish school and go on to college. If there's no guarantee of a getting a good job why bother putting forth the effort?
Crime becomes more appealing
Sadly for some, turning to a life of crime has become more attractive than pursuing a higher education. Teens and young adults aren't generally known for having patience or foresight, and the temptation to make instant money by dealing drugs, joining gangs, and participating in other nefarious activities can become too glamorous and appealing to resist. It's a worldwide issue and Peter Fahy, a police chief in the United Kingdom, says "Our concern would be the wider impact of not just a rise in unemployment but a generation of young people that don't see much hope. They find what gang members and drug dealers are up to more attractive than going to college if they think that they are not going to get a job at the end of it."
Prevention is key
Fahy also says that early intervention is crucial as the recession continues to take a bite out of the job market. Keeping teens in school and motivated toward a career means keeping them hopeful and empowered. Open an ongoing conversation with them about the tough issues and challenges the recession brings as well as their fears about the future. Keep the lines of communication open and stay involved in how your kids are doing in school and what they're up to after hours.