Question

What obstacles do young people face when trying to become civically engaged?

Answer 1

Obstacles are numerous. Often, adults don't take young people seriously which can be discouraging. In addition, this demotivates students and they go back to not actively participating in the society. Peer pressure can also be a problem here because other youth might perceive the person as different and sticking out and often young people don't want to be abandoned. Another problem is sometimes lack of things that can be done. There are not that many positions where young people who are often still students can make a difference and feel satisfied which also discourages people. There are even more than these but these are just examples.

Answer 2

The article mentions that adults have a prejudice against young people, stating that they believe young people just aren’t interested in being involved. Some adults even believe that young people lack of morals and are disrespectful and undisciplined. These perceptions might make young people less willing to participate and could also make organizations less willing to include young people.

The article also mentions that a young person’s status as a minor could hinder his or her ability to get involved. Any person under the age of 18 would need the permission of a parent or guardian to be able to participate in a volunteer effort. A young person who can’t drive also has a harder time getting transportation to and from meetings or other volunteer activities