Leaving home in Quebec: Theoretical and Social Implications of (Im)mobility Among Youth

Based on the analysis of 1981, 1991 and 1996 census data and results from a survey on migration patterns conducted with 5518 youths aged between 20 and 34 in the province of Quebec, Canada, this paper sets out the general patterns of leaving home in Quebec. Particular attention is paid to age group, gender and regional-urban differences. Findings are discussed in the light of notions of disembedding (Giddens) and risk (Beck), and their interplay in theories of transition to adulthood. The analysis focuses on the appropriateness of individualization theories in explaining the transition to adulthood. The empirical evidence raises questions as to whether trends in leaving home indicate increased individualization among youths or patterns of social reproduction. Research and social implications of prolonged home staying and limited geographical mobility during youth are also discussed.