Distance, isolation and place: A study of youth living in a remote mining community
Distance, isolation and place: A study of youth living in a remote mining community Conference Paper
AARE-NZARE 1996: Building New Partnerships
- Author(s): Harvey, Jim
- Published: 1996
Abstract: The meanings people make of their lives is more than a product of their material circumstances (e.g. class and gender). They are also significantly influenced by the meanings they made of their place. This paper has its origins in the growing, though disputed terrain of post-modern social theory. Its specific focus is on the relationships between distance, isolation and place and their impact on the lives of young people growing up on the geographical and social margins. Using data collected using semi-structured interviews and photographs this paper explores how young people living in a remote mining town organise place to form both the material and mental structures of their lives. Major findings include:The young people's knowledge and understanding of other places, especially cities, is partial. Common threads of uncertainty about using public transport (i.e. a fear of moving around) and a fear of violence are appearing. Decisions to leave the town are difficult. Mining is a gender-specific activity. Women are excluded from every aspect of the industry. Women and especially young women are doubly disadvantaged by the powerful oppressions of gender and geographical isolation.
- Urls: https://www.aare.edu.au/data/publications/1996/harvj96087.pdf
- Publisher Location: Singapore