Too Complacent About Digitalization? What Can the Youth Field Do?

Research and politics on digitalization is divided into supporters of autonomy of tech industry, proponents of public regulation and into those seeing internet as a public service. It is suggested that in many countries, digital youth work has adopted a pro-tech industry techno-optimistic view on digitalization. However, increasing knowledge indicates how tech industry abuses young people and creates harms, such as addiction to social media and e-gaming. A widespread complacency about digital means prevails among young people and youth workers. Youth work is narrowly focused on technical skills, while the broad context of the tech company domination and its harms is neglected. To counteract complacency, this article describes the obstacles to understand digitalization critically. The educational response should be awareness-raising of youth workers and young people through young people’s digital rights, critical digital literacy, non-formal learning and young people’s own agency. Finally, a new definition of digital youth work is presented.