NCJ Number
149963
Journal
Youth Studies Australia Volume: 13 Issue: 1 Dated: (Autumn 1994) Pages: 44- 48
Date Published
1994
Length
5 pages
Annotation
The author was a youth worker with Australia's Kaltjiti aboriginal community in 1991-1992, and he examines the place of youth work in a traditional aboriginal community where English is the second language.
Abstract
The Kaltjiti community has a population of approximately 400 Anango and 30 whites; Pitjantjatjara is the traditional language. The Kaltjiti people have watched their entire lifestyle change dramatically in recent years, and the creation of a youth culture is one of those changes. Secondary schooling has been introduced, health services have been improved, and small family groups have been consolidated into larger communities. Even so, the role of youth in the community has not been defined and young people are generally not interested in school or work. The author recommends that youth be encouraged to participate in work, employment, and training, and that youth be made aware of the role of local laws and traditions. He also suggests that work with youth focus on maintaining cultural integrity and target all young people and youth groups.