Unga vuxnas erfarenheter av ofrivillig arbetslöshet : En fenomenologisk studie om unga vuxnas erfarenheter av ofrivillig arbetslöshet

Sammanfattning

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to examine young adults, in the ages 19-29, experiences of psychosocial consequences of involuntary unemployment. Method: A qualitative study was implemented through ten semi structured interviews with seven male and three female young adults with earlier experiences for at least six months of involuntary unemployment in the ages between 23-28. A phenomenological analysis was used to examine young adult’s experiences of involuntary unemployment. Main results: Young adults with experiences of involuntary unemployment experience that unemployment leads to changes in their relationships. Their own view of themselves and identity decreased with their self-confidence and self-esteem. Their view on their future was experienced as negative based on the challenges regarding getting a job. Lack of routines, structure, purpose and answers from job applications decreased the motivation during unemployment. Young unemployed adults applied coping-strategies and social resources to cope with the situation and trying to get out of unemployment. Conclusion: Involuntary unemployment is experienced to lead to psychosocial consequences among young adults. These consequences go beyond the financial consequences of unemployment and involves lack of future outlook, motivation, self-worth and changed relationships. Young unemployed adults try to apply active coping-strategies and change their situation.