Nurturing Pillars of Society

The younger generation—those under the age of 25—accounts for more than a quarter of Hong Kong’s population. A much-misunderstood group, these people have special characteristics and needs, and some are particularly vulnerable. Substance abuse among young people is on the rise, and juveniles make up a third of total arrests every year. Extra effort and attention is required of policy-makers, educationalists and social workers to help this group make a positive contribution to society. This book seeks to promote understanding of Hong Kong’s young generation and offers strategies for working with them and their families towards healthy and productive development. Divided into three parts—youth in general, youth-at-risk, and young offenders—the book draws on international literature and empirical studies from within Hong Kong. Its focus is on action, always stressing the practical question of how to build a new model for working effectively with them. This book will be essential reading for seasoned professionals as well as undergraduate students in criminology, social policy, and social work, and postgraduates intending to practise in these areas.

Francis Wing-lin Lee is an associate professor in the Department of Social Work and Social Administration in the University of Hong Kong. He has been involving in social work education in Hong Kong for over twenty years. His areas of specialty and research interest include groupwork with young people, individual work and groupwork with “youth-at-risk” and young offenders, youth services, causes of juvenile delinquency, treatment programmes for young offenders, policing and criminology.

“The younger generation today has to face complex and diverse life challenges, ranging from dysfunctioning family system, unemployment, hurdles of social mobility, stressful school life and the bombardments of the new social media. To help young people cope with these challenges, they have to be given opportunities and choices for holistic growth, to acquire independent thinking and global vision. This book provides thorough analysis and practical reference for youth workers that can enhance their understanding to work with our young people.” —Christine Fang, Chief Executive, The Hong Kong Council of Social Service

“This new book by Francis Lee is a timely theoretical and practical guide for parents, professionals and policy makers who are committed to fostering the holistic well-being and positive development of the young generation in Hong Kong. The book can also stimulate young people to reflect on and articulate their real selves and aspirations to adults who care.” —Sandra Tsang, Head, Department of Social Work and Social Administration, University of Hong Kong