Taking stock of America's youth

Approximately 40 million Americans are between the ages of 14 and 24. This age cohort currently represents about 15 percent of the total U.S. population. Members of this age group are developing their identities and experiencing occasional confrontation between generations. This period of development also includes education, training and job market testing. The direction these youths set out to follow will largely determine their course for much of their adult lives. A good start is therefore essential. Unfortunately, high school dropout rates are still very high and raise concerns about a widening economic gap between high income/low unemployment and low income/high unemployment members of society in an increasingly complex job world. The average income of young workers naturally tends to be low-a fact that belies the economic clout and future potential of this group. Every generation of young adults has left its mark on society as it passes through this stage of life, and the echo boomers--the offspring of the baby boomers--are certain to do just that.