Authors

• Advisory Council for Youth Affairs (Nuora)

Keywords

attitudes, drug abuse, education, elections, future expectations, political participation, public expenditure, public services, satisfaction, social exclusion, youth, youth employment, youth work

Abstract

The survey probed young people's views on education, working life, democracy, inequality, unemployment, Finland's NATO and EU membership. Respondents were asked how much information about education opportunities (post lower secondary) they had received from e.g. study advisers, parents, employment offices, friends or Internet. Future plans concerning work and studies were surveyed. Next theme dealt with a hypothetical situation where public expenditure would have to be cut: respondents were asked whether cuts could be made in health care, education, certain social benefits, defence, housing, agricultural subsidies, care of the elderly, cultural services, etc.

One theme focused on social exclusion of young people. Respondents were questioned what might be the reasons for it (e.g. own indifference, lack of education, help, work, friends, hobbies or belief in future). Opinions about the acceptability of illegal drug use were canvassed. Respondents' own drug, alcohol and tobacco consumption was charted. Political participation was studied by asking whether respondents intend to vote in next elections and whether they would be willing to express their opinions by participating in a demonstration, strike, consumer boycott, violence, or by becoming a candidate in elections, signing a petition, etc. Views were probed about which issues the government should especially promote. Respondents evaluated the importance of facilities provided for young people and other aspects of youth work in their community.

Respondents' satisfaction with their financial situation and life in general were queried. Expectations for the future were charted by asking respondents to rate the importance of achieving certain things by the age of 35 (e.g. family and children, permanent job, high standard of living, ownership of dwelling, own car, participation in politics, good friends, travel). Respondents were asked which party they would feel closest to if parliamentary elections were held at that moment. Background variables included respondents' sex, age, respondents' and their parents' education level, employment situation, province and region of residence and type of municipality.