Adolescence is a critical stage in human development where individuals begin to develop their identity and understanding of the world around them. One significant aspect of this process is the development of an individual's sense of agency and empowerment. Agency refers to an individual's ability to make choices, take action, and have control over one's life, while empowerment refers to feeling capable of achieving desired outcomes despite external constraints. Systemic injustice can significantly impact adolescents' experiences and shape their sense of agency and empowerment. This article will explore how systemic injustices such as racism, classism, ableism, sexism, and homophobia can influence adolescents' sense of agency and empowerment.
Systemic injustice is a pervasive issue that affects many aspects of society, including education, employment, housing, healthcare, and criminal justice systems. Adolescents who experience systemic injustice may feel powerless, unworthy, and disempowered. They may struggle to see themselves as agents who can change their circumstances, leading to a lack of motivation or hope for the future.
If an adolescent grows up in a low-income neighborhood, they may feel trapped by poverty, unable to pursue higher education or achieve financial stability. If an adolescent experiences racism, they may internalize negative stereotypes about their race and view themselves as less intelligent, hardworking, or worthy than others.
Adolescence is also a time when individuals begin exploring their sexuality and relationships. Experiences of systemic injustice can negatively impact this process.
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual (LGBTQIA) youth may face discrimination, exclusion, and violence, leading to feelings of alienation, shame, and self-hatred. These experiences can make them less likely to form positive romantic or sexual relationships, reducing their opportunities for intimacy, love, and support.
Systemic injustices can significantly shape adolescents' sense of agency and empowerment. Experiencing systemic injustice can lead to feelings of powerlessness, hopelessness, and low self-esteem, making it challenging to believe that one has the capacity to create change.
There are ways to address these issues through advocacy, activism, and community building. Adults and communities must work together to ensure that all young people have access to resources, support, and opportunities for growth, regardless of their background or identity. By doing so, we can help build a more just and equitable society where everyone feels empowered and capable of achieving their goals.
In what ways do experiences of systemic injustice shape adolescents' sense of agency and empowerment?
Systemic injustice refers to the unequal treatment of individuals due to their social group membership such as race, gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status. Adolescence is a time when young people are developing their identity, values, and beliefs about themselves and the world around them.