Young Adults are Finding it Harder and Harder to Get Jobs
A new study released Thursday reveals the effects of the economy on young adults ages 18 to 34.
Findings show that young adults are having the hardest time gaining foothold in the recovering economy, which consequently affects their longer-term decisions such as schooling, careers, marriage, and parenthood.
The survey, by the Pew Research Center, showed that 41 percent of Americans believe that young adults have been hit the hardest by the recession, more than any other age group. The study also showed that 29 percent felt middle-aged adults are having the toughest time, and 24 percent felt that people 65 and older have been impacted the most.
Almost half said that they took jobs they didn't necessarily want just to pay the bills. More than a third have gone back to school due to the bad economy. A third have postponed plans of marriage or having a child. One fourth of respondents moved back in with their parents after attempting to live independently.
Less than fifty percent of currently employed young adults believe they have the qualifications to get ahead in their jobs.
Half of those 18 to 34 recognized that their own age group has suffered the most. But despite these gloomy statistics, young adults are optimistic about their futures. 9 out of 10 said they currently have money, or anticipate that they will in the future.
