Youth labour markets in 23 countries: a comparison using micro data

This paper examines the working lives of more than 110,000 individuals across twenty-three countries over an eight year period, 1985-1992. Both quantitative and qualitative data are examine. The data source is the International Social Survey Programme (ISSP). The paper finds that the young are distinguished from older age groups by the following traits: they are less well paid and have a relatively high probability of being unemployed. They also have a low probability of being a member of the force, being self-employed or a member of a trade union. In terms of their attitudes the young are more likely than older age groups to say a) they would like to be self-employed if they had the choice b) to be supportive of the role of trade unions c) to support government intervention in the market d) that they are very happy with their lives.