ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on what people do know about adolescents who work and the role of stress in their lives. Emphasis is placed on helping youth correct depression and substance abuse that may be precipitated or worsened by their employment experiences. The United States federal laws govern when, where, and how many hours an adolescent can work. Very limited attention has been given to the psychosocial impact of work for these youth. When stress was addressed, researchers studied the presence or absence of diagnosable mental health disorders. The National Research Council and Institute of Medicine (1999) reported that approximately half of working youth are employed in the retail sector. Occupational stress is an issue for adolescents and adults. Work related stress is manifested differently in males and females. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) suggests that adolescents, parents, teachers, and employers watch youth for signs that their jobs are extracting too much physical or mental energy.
