What is it like to be a young person in the U.S. today? How is it different than in the past or in other societies? By taking a sociological view, we can see the importance of the social contexts in which children and youth live. Using a variety of different readings and resources we will explore the influence of social contexts, institutions, social structures, and social location (e.g. social class, race, gender) on youth experiences and how they affect differential opportunities and outcomes. In doing so, we will not only recognize that children and youth are shaped by their social contexts, but also how youth act as agents in their own lives, shaping their social worlds and society. Additionally, the course looks at some of the problems or challenges that contemporary children, adolescents, and young adults encounter, and considers social policies and interventions aimed to address these issues and support young people.