Young people, online networks and social inclusion

Abstract

This paper examines the ways nine teenage Australians—identified as being 'at risk' of social exclusion—are using online networks to participate in society. The research finds that online networks provided the participants with valuable opportunities for social inclusion. These findings are contextualized in relation to current Australian Government education and social policies which, on the one hand aspire to support young people’s social inclusion, and on the other restrict their ability to use online networks in public and private spaces because of safety and health concerns. This study contends that by defining and understanding the social value of young people’s online network use we can move toward a policy framework that not only addresses potential online risks, but also supports equitable digital inclusion for young people.