Teens finding it harder to find jobs

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - The struggling economy is creating a host of problems, including teen unemployment.

Adults tend to be working jobs that would normally go to teenagers.

In 2002, 49% of Rhode Islanders between the ages of 16 and 19 were employed and working an average of 10.7 hours per week.

In 2011, that number was down to 32% and those teens were only working an average of 6 hours a week.

Sixteen-year-old Maliek Carroll worked the summer youth program at Fox Point Boys and Girls Club.

Even though he now has work experience, he still can't find a job because adults can provide more experience than a teenager.

Nicole Defresne of the Boys and Girls Club told Eyewitness News that many of the teens the organization works with are trying to get a job to help their families put food on the table.