Publication type
ISER Working Paper Series
Series Number
22025-04
Series
ISER Working Paper Series
Authors
Publication date
October 20, 2025
Abstract:
Using UKHLS Youth Module data, we examined 16-year-olds’ future expectations with latent profile analysis. Most young people anticipated higher education, marriage, and children, while a “Career-Focused” group prioritised education and employment over family. The smallest group (~6%) held low expectations for study, work, and parenthood, and anticipated unemployment. Every £100 increase in equivalised weekly household income raised the odds of belonging to the most aspirational class by 5% versus the low-expectations group. Longitudinally, the lowexpectations group had lowest education, prolonged unemployment, and highest parenthood before 21. Understanding these distinct profiles provides insights to support adolescents transitioning to adulthood.
Subject
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