Can Internships Help Break the Unemployment Cycle for At-risk Youth? New Study has Answers

Kwan, C. K., Shum, M. H. Y., Chu, T. T., & Ng, N. K. S. (2025). Internship: Breaking the vicious unemployment cycle for vulnerable youth. Children and Youth Services Review, 169, 108122.

Introduction 

The transition from school to the workforce is often challenging for young people, particularly those classified as vulnerable youth, who face significant barriers in entering the labor market. Many fall into the NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) category, increasing their risk of poverty, social exclusion, and antisocial behaviors. Kwan and colleagues (2025) explore whether targeted internship programs can serve as an effective intervention to break the cycle of “no experience, no job; no job, no experience.”

Methods and Results 

To analyze this intervention, the authors assessed a one-year internship program for vulnerable youth (defined as those aged 15-25 with low educational attainment and limited work experience) in Hong Kong, aiming to measure changes in employability and skill development. Participants included 18 youth, 14 mentors, and 10 case managers. A mixed-methods approach was used, consisting of two self-assessments and two focus group discussions. The BEAM model was then introduced, identifying four key employability attributes: basic soft skills (B), expectations toward work (E), job attitude (A), and marketable hard skills (M).

Self-evaluations revealed a significant increase in perceived work abilities, with scores rising from an average of 5.2 out of 10 before participation, to 7.3 post-program. Thematic analysis of focus group discussions revealed positive changes in workplace communication, adaptability, and responsibility among trainees. Mentors and case managers reported enhanced motivation and confidence in participants, reinforcing the program’s effectiveness.

Discussion 

The findings indicate the transformative potential of structured internships in addressing youth employability barriers, suggesting that internship programs should be long enough to allow for meaningful skill development, incorporate strong mentoring components, and foster supportive work environments. Despite some challenges, such as inconsistent attendance among trainees, the study affirms that internships can play a crucial role in breaking the cycle of “no experience, no job; no job, no experience.”

Implications for Mentoring Programs

Mentorship emerges as useful tool to support at-risk youth engaged in internships. Effective mentoring not only enhances skill development, but also provides the emotional and professional guidance necessary for youth to navigate workplace challenges. Organizations implementing internship programs should invest in mentor training, ensuring that mentors are equipped to provide constructive feedback, model professional behaviors, and support mentees’ career aspirations. 

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