1996/97 PCERII Funded Research Abstract

Research Title: Economic Integration: Young Immigrants and Native Born Canadians

Research Team: Dr. James Frideres (University of Calgary) - Principal Investigator

Research Domain(s): Economic; Social

This research will focus on young Canadians (18-25) entering the labour force as full time employees for the first time. We will explore the process by which they enter, the nature and type of jobs they obtain (or do not obtain), and the issues that confront them as they enter the job market. A sample of immigrant and native born young Canadians will be selected in the city of Calgary. This sample will be further subdivided into visible and nonvisible youth. Interviews will be carried out in 1997 and then again (with the same individuals) in the year 2000. This longitudinal perspective will allow us to assess the relevance and importance of specific attributes held by the individuals.

In addition to obtaining information about the individuals, we will also look at a sample of employers and the structural conditions they operate within. This will provide us with additional information about the experiences of young Canadians entering the labour force.