Changes in family and education of young people in global society

Abstract

We are currently living in a situation of extreme economic complexity that is transforming family configurations and their duties in financially supporting their dependent members. Economic changes transform the NEET by expanding their education cycles. The education cycle has been extended and that has several consequences on the family and on training these individuals for work. It also involves the increasing incorporation of unconventional students, with very specific interests and preferences that educational systems must value. The current analysis firstly sets out the data for dependent young people in Europe. After a comparative analysis of the available data, alternatives are offered regarding the future of training. Statistical data on families and social welfare budgets are presented as well as the cost of training in different countries. It deals with a possible mismatch in terms of integrating models developed by the Higher Education system in Europe. The debate also arises on a financial level suggesting subsidy lines or strategies to support the role of families. Families have been transformed from production units to consumer units and are now moving closer to becoming maintenance units. This is an innovative function of families. It corresponds to a level of specialisation that is difficult to sustain. It also implies substituting services that welfare states could initially offer.