The Other View publishes special feature booklet examining alienated youth.

The Other View has recently produced a booklet examining the alienation of young people, north and south of the border. The research was carried out over a six-month period, with young people from West Belfast and the Darndale area of Dublin interviewed on a range of subjects, including joyriding, paramilitaries and education. The booklet gives insight into life as seen through the eyes of the interviewees and the opinions expressed illustrate the problems faced by many adolescents in areas of high unemployment and where many feel there is little prospect for their future.

The Other View makes no claim that the views expressed reflect those of all young people; on the contrary, this booklet was intended to be a snapshot of experiences and opinion of a small number of young people.
No attempts were made to make a complex analysis of the subject matter, although many who read it are likely to encourage further debate on the problems raised, since, although some people may find the contents unsettling, a clear picture emerges of disenchanted youth.

The persistent issue of joyriding is explored throughout the publication. This is obviously a problem which has had a devastating effect on many lives, leaving all too many people, including children, dead or seriously injured.

With issues surrounding the high incidence of suicide amongst young people recently highlighted in the press, the reading in this booklet is particularly relevant since it gives a voice to some young people who, while you may disagree with their views, are largely unheard.

If you would like to receive a free copy of the Youth on the Outside booklet, please contact:
Expac, Mediation Resource Centre, or LINC resource Centre
(Contact details on the back cover of this issue) leaving your name and address.
There are a limited number of copies available and requests will be dealt with on a first come, first served basis.

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