Exploring Youth Identity Formation in Urban Informal Economies

Thesis Abstract

In rapidly urbanizing contexts, youth engagement in informal economies has significantly shaped socio-cultural identities, yet the processes through which young individuals construct their identities within these economic spaces remain underexplored. This study investigates the mechanisms of youth identity formation in urban informal economies, focusing on how economic participation influences self-perception, social relations, and cultural affiliations among young people aged 15 to 29 in the metropolitan city of Riverview. The primary aim is to examine the role of informal economic activities in shaping youth identities, with specific objectives including evaluating the socio-economic backgrounds of youth participants, analyzing the influence of informal work spaces on identity expression, and exploring the intersections of gender, age, and social networks in identity construction. Employing a mixed-methods research design, the study combines quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to generate a comprehensive understanding of youth identity processes. The target population comprises young informal economy workers registered with local labor agencies, community organizations, and market associations. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select a total sample size of 400 youth respondents for the quantitative phase, ensuring balanced representation across gender, age groups, and types of informal work. Additionally, 30 participants were purposively sampled for in-depth interviews to delve deeper into personal narratives and contextual factors influencing identity formation. Data collection involved structured questionnaires measuring socio-economic variables, identity markers, and social networks, alongside semi-structured interview guides exploring personal experiences and cultural perceptions. To ensure validity and reliability, the survey instruments were pre-tested with a subset of 40 respondents, and interview protocols were reviewed by experts in sociology and anthropology. Quantitative data will be analyzed through descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression to identify determinants of identity formation. The qualitative component will be subjected to thematic analysis using NVivo software, with coding categories developed inductively to reveal emergent themes related to identity construction. It is anticipated that the findings will demonstrate that youth involved in informal economies develop multifaceted identities shaped by their economic roles, social interactions, and cultural affiliations, with gender and social networks playing moderating roles. The study expects to reveal that informal economic participation provides a platform for youth to negotiate traditional norms and develop a sense of agency, thereby contributing to their overall identity development. Moreover, the research will highlight the significance of social and economic support structures in fostering positive identity formation and resilience among young workers. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by explicitly linking informal economic participation with youth identity processes, emphasizing the socio-cultural dimensions of economic activities often overlooked in economic-centric studies. The findings aim to inform policymakers, youth development practitioners, and community organizations on designing targeted interventions that enhance positive identity development through support mechanisms and inclusive policies within informal economies. The study concludes that youth identity in informal economies is complex and dynamically constructed through socio-economic interactions within urban spaces. It recommends policies that recognize the cultural and social significance of informal economic activities, promote gender-sensitive support initiatives, and foster social networks that empower youth while addressing challenges like marginalization and social exclusion. Future research should explore longitudinal trajectories of identity formation over time and investigate the impact of digital platforms in shaping youth identities in informal urban settings.