IDLE MEXICAN-AMERICAN YOUTH AND THE PROPORTIONATE SIZE OF THE MEXICAN-AMERICAN POPULATION

Prior research suggests that as the size of a minority grows, disadvan tages accrue for its members. This research explores this issue focusi ng specifically on Mexican American teenagers. The relationship betwee n the educational and employment status of Mexican American youths and the proportionate size of the Mexican American population in the metr opolitan statistical areas (MSAs) in which they reside is examined usi ng 1990 census data. Findings indicate that a large percentage of Mexi can American teens can be identified as idle youths (19%), dropping ou t of school with limited or no employment. Findings also show-after co ntrolling for intervening variables such as household socioeconomic st atus, acculturation, and central city residence-that proportionately l arge Mexican American populations are associated with a reduced risk o f idle status. Additional research is called for to explore the mechan isms by which these teens benefit.