Even the youngest age-groups divided into two classes in the workplace

Most 15-29-year-olds relatively satisfied with working conditions; one in three get cash support from parents

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Even those young people taking their first steps in working life appear to be in danger of being divided into two camps. The better-placed can, for instance, exert some influence on their tasks and working conditions, while others have no opportunity for this and must take what they can get.
      However, according to a survey published on Tuesday by the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health (FIOH), young workers enjoy their work. In principle, they seem to be satisfied with the feedback and support given by their superiors and colleagues.
     
The researchers believe that the positive findings are a result of the short working careers of young persons. Hence, they do not feel frustrated yet - not even those who would have a reason for frustration.
      The survey, which was carried out last summer, explored the relation to work as well as the working conditions and work ability of 15-29 year old workers in Finland. A total of almost 1,000 young persons were interviewed by telephone all over Finland. Also workers with summer jobs were included.
      It is hardly a surprise that studying and working were overlapping in the respondents’ lives.
      At the time of the survey, about 50 % of the respondents were wage-earners, and one third of them were permanently employed. A half of the respondents were students aiming to achieve a degree.
      Earnings from temporary or permanent employment were often nowhere near sufficient to make a living. More than 30 % of all young respondents and 75 % of the students received financial support from their parents.
     
Even if young people are optimistic about work, Deputy Chief Physician Timo Leino of the FIOH does not regard their opinions about working life as too hopeful. However, young workers are flexible in their labours. Many of the respondents said that they were busy on the job, but actual stress was seldom recognised.
      According to Leino, there are surprisingly many physical stress factors in the working conditions of young people. However, young workers are not familiar with the occupational health services to which everybody in an employment relationship is entitled by law.


Links:
  The Finnish Institute of Occupational Health:Youth and Work

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