The problems of disadvantaged youth : an economic perspective Introduction: what have we learned about the problems of and prospects for disadvantaged youth Jonathan Gruber Education : the behavioral consequences of pre kindergarten participation for disadvantaged youth David Figlio and Jeffrey Roth Is gaining access to selective elementary schools gaining ground : evidence from randomized lotteries Julie Berry Cullen and Brian A. Jacob Would more compulsory schooling help disadvantaged youth : evidence from recent changes to school leaving laws Philip Oreopoulos Health and healthy behaviors : mental health in childhood and human capital Janet Currie and Mark Stabile Childhood disadvantage and obesity : is nurture trumping nature Patricia M. Anderson Kristin F. Butcher and Diane Whitmore Schanzenbach Socioeconomic disadvantage and early childbearing Melissa S. Kearney and Phillip B. Levine Contextual influences : parental income shocks and outcomes of disadvantaged youth in the United States Marianne Page Ann Huff Stevens and Jason Lindo The role of religious and social organizations in the lives of disadvantaged youth Rajeev Dehejia Thomas Deleire Erzo F.P. Luttmer and Josh Mitchell Neighborhood violence and urban youth Anna Aizer