As someone who regularly exposes himself (no, not that way) to today's youth, I find a big problem is that their parents have given them everything they've wanted...a nice house, free fast chauffeur service, excess food, vacations, even a car when they turn 16...well it's human nature really...Why would anyone work for anything when throughout your entire life, you've had everything given to you? The immigrants who come here, they are working towards something...something better, bigger...A Dream. That's a real big intrinsic motivator to work and study your ass off.
The school system in general is useless. So many useless subjects. Paying 30k a year to be an english or philosophy major is just sad.
May be easier for those studying "useless subjects" to get a low-wage job in the brave new world. If your parents paid your college, they can probably give you some help with job contacts too. Studying "useless subjects" in college is a luxury for those coming from well-to-do families. The rest of us learn useless subjects by reading - library or online, free. http://economy.ocregister.com/2011/02/28/low-paid-jobs-are-biggest-in-growth/50123/
I just feel bad for all those kids's parents! No kid should have to live with their parent for longer than 20 years. Once you reach 21 you should be out of your house. The economy is going to suffer from lack of young impulsive spending. Its a vicious cycle.
Climbing the economic ladder in US is harder than EU http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/03/17/social-immobility-climbin_n_501788.html?view=print