The effects of adolescent employment upon school, family, and adult values

The level of discretionary spending of today's teenager is much greater than that of previous generations. For many, money is earned from part-time employment. As the teenage population continues to be an important segment in the marketplace, it is critical that teens learn to function as rational consumers. While there has been a large volume of quantitative research investigating the impact of part-time employment on adolescent development, there is little qualitative evidence to explain the phenomenon of youth work and in the context of school-year employment. This study examined how adults now perceive the effects of their own school-year employment upon their adolescent development and later adult attitude, behavior, and parental expectations. Extensive interviews were conducted and data were collected from 12 adults, 11 of whom participated in school-year employment as teenagers. Findings of the study revealed evidence of both positive and negative consequences of school-year employment upon the adolescent's school experiences, extra-curricular activities, time with family and friends, money management practices, educational goals, and career aspirations. Analysis revealed that this early work experience influences later adult values, attitude and behavior as well as parental expectations and goals. Evidence emerged regarding the relationship between family and an adolescent's work, as well as the impact of this experience on family life.