Category: Teenagers

Introduction

I have always wanted to help people. I believe that the major aim of any person is to help others. Thus, if I was offered to become someone for a day, this would be Molly, a teacher in a school for troubled teenagers. I think this is one of the most challenging and enjoyable ways to teach and learn really valuable lessons. I understand that troubled kids make mistakes and make some indecent things. However, they often do bad things to get more attention from adults.

They are quite vulnerable and really want to fit in. Nonetheless, these desires are often hidden by these kids’ ‘toughness’ and only few adults manage to see the great potential in those young personalities. I would try to teach those teenagers reveal their abilities and show what they can. At the same time, I am sure they would also teach me a lot. I would definitely learn lots of important lessons while working with troubled teenagers.

Main Body

My working day would begin early. I would do some exercise with my students. I know that keeping fit helps people be healthy and positive. I would choose a beautiful place to enjoy the view and make us stronger. I believe nature is the best source of positive emotions. This can help teenagers understand that the world is beautiful and it is worth being a part of it. After the exercise, we would start learning and teaching. We would work with our hands.

We would have certain workshops where we would create helpful and beautiful things. Working together on some models or projects would help them work in a team. These young people would understand that it is important to work in a team. They would also learn to trust each other and to trust other people, which is very important for their future. I would also choose some teambuilding activities to make each member of my group more supportive.

I would help young learners study more effectively. I would pay special attention to literature as I think reading the right books helps the teenagers find their ways in the society. I am sure that books are perfect sources of knowledge and experience as from books teenagers learn what is right and wrong. It is necessary to note that all our classes would be held in the form of discussions. These young people need to understand that someone is interested in their own ideas, in their own approaches. They must understand they can speak and they should speak and express their viewpoint.

Hopefully, I would be able to create a group of people who can express their viewpoints and who are ready to become a part of their community. Doing sports, working together and discussing books would help me make those teenagers a good team where each member is supportive though has his/her own viewpoint. I would help them understand the importance of following rules and the bright side of being a part of the society (even though it is not friendly to such kids). I think I can succeed in working with troubled teenagers as I had quite many friends among such young people. I know what they really think and really want. I believe I can guide troubled teenagers as I can speak their language and address their aspirations.

Conclusion

Apart from teaching young people, I would also learn a lot. In the first place, I would learn more about life of troubled kids in the contemporary society. I would understand why such kids are neglected and why they want to be alienated. I think this is one of the most burning issues in our society as people need to unite and start addressing burning issues. However, we all try to close into our shells and focus on our problems.

Working with troubled kids would help me find out what makes people ignore community. I would also learn about different life stories. This is a great experience as any life story is a pack of tools to cope with lots of issues. I would get experience in guiding young people and making them a part of something bigger. At the same time, I would teach them to be themselves no matter what. I think this experience can teach me a good lesson, too. I will see (not just think) that everyone makes mistakes, but it does not mean these people are bad. I will be more eager to give the second chance to people. This experience can also help me in my own future.

When I have my own kids, I will try to be a very attentive and supportive parent. I will also understand that making mistakes can be a way to attract my attention. I will not punish my child but I will try to understand the reason why he/she misbehaves. Therefore, teaching troubled teenagers would be helpful for the kids as well as for me. I would try to show the kids the other way out, and they would make me a better person.

How does advertising influence teenagers? The answer to this question can be found in the essay below.

Introduction

Advertising affects teenagers in various ways, many of which are negative. Teenagers become attracted to various forms of advertisements. As they grow older, they encounter more advertisements, thereby affecting their personalities. Children are surrounded by advertisements during every stage of development. Extensive research conducted has revealed that teenagers play a key role in various markets owing to their purchase and consumption patterns (Berger 2011).

The major motivation behind teenage purchases is the influence that originates from advertisements posted on magazines, newspapers, and the internet (Kirsh 2010). According to research, teenagers are the top consumers in America, contributing about $150 billion every year through purchase of goods and services (Schudson 2013).

A study conducted by Music Television (MTV) revealed that many teenagers are attracted to advertisements and programs that include provocative features related to sex, antisocial behavior, and violence (Schudson 2013). In addition, the study found out that many adolescents proceed to model different actions and behaviors depicted on such commercials and TV shows. Similar studies have provided results that various companies and organizations use in developing marketing strategies for their products and services.

The main purpose of this paper is to explore the negative effects of advertisements on teenagers and the various ways in which parents and teachers can mitigate the influences. Negative influences of advertising on teenagers include embracement of unhealthy eating habits, lack of self-esteem and confidence, perpetuation of violence and stereotypes, propagation of drinking and smoking, enhancement of teenagers’ propensity to risk, and development of anxiety regarding their body images (Berger 2011).

It is important for parents and teachers to educate teenagers regarding the effects of advertising on their well-being. Parents should limit the amount of time that their children are exposed to advertising that affects them negatively.

Negative influences of advertising on teenagers

Teenagers are constantly exposed to advertisements that have negative influences on their eating habits, personalities, attitudes, and behaviors (Gunter & McAleer 2005). Different forms of advertisements are embedded in movies, films, plays, and internet programs that teenagers watch. The main aim of these advertisements is to influence teenagers into buying certain products so that companies can increase sales and loyalty to their brands.

Through the influence of advertisements, teenagers buy into the culture of letting other people decide the attitudes they develop, the clothes they wear, the foods they eat, how they behave, and how they treat other people (Kirsh 2010). Advertising influences teenagers easily because adolescence is a critical stage in the development of identity as well as personal ideals and values. Teenagers behave in ways that increase chances of acceptance and validation among their peers.

Product and service companies spend billions of dollars in marketing and advertising every year. Their main target is teenagers because young people are easily influenced and as such can be convinced to subscribe to herd mentality (Kirsh 2010). Young people buy anything that is described as trendy and fun. It is easy for companies to alter their beliefs and attitudes by constantly presenting their products to them on TV, the internet, and other media platforms.

Several companies use celebrities to endorse their products because they are sure that by so doing, teenagers would be influenced into using them because of their admiration for celebrities and their glamorous lifestyles (Kirsh 2010). Advertising affects several aspects of teenagers’ lives including their psychology, physical well being, behaviors, attitudes, and personalities.

Governments, parents, and teachers are doing their best to ensure that teenagers are not affected negatively by advertising. However, the billions of dollars set apart by companies for marketing and advertising undermine their efforts. The government should impose strict regulations in order to compel companies and media platforms to avoid advertisements that affect teenagers negatively.

Anxiety regarding body image

Advertisements create a sense of anxiety in teenagers about their body images that makes them feel inadequate (Kirsh 2010). A common method of marketing used by companies is making teenagers feel inadequate and awful about their bodies. To accomplish this goal, companies use thin female models and well toned male models in advertisements making teenagers feel fat, too thin, too big, or unattractive (Levine 2010).

Many teenagers feel inadequate, and as a result use diet regimens, drugs, and exercise to live up to the standards set by the models shown in advertisements. For many teenagers, the main goal is to attain the bodies of the models and celebrities on advertisements (Berger 2011). This striving for perfection leads to low self-esteem and diminished self-worth. Teenagers compromise their identity and academic achievements.

Advertisements show ideal body images of males and females in ways that create negative social cues in the minds of teenagers. Young people embrace the belief that if they do not possess the looks and bodies of their favorite celebrities, then they fail to measure up to societal standards. Men are presented as alert, domineering, physically active, and energetic. They possess strong hands, six-pack abs, acne-free faces, tall heights, and huge biceps (Gunter & McAleer 2005).

Young people who do not meet these standards develop anxiety and learn to dislike their bodies. Others find ways to attain these features by exercising excessively, dieting, and using steroids without minding the negative consequences on their health (Gunter & McAleer 2005).

Advertisements present unrealistic images of celebrities and models that young boys and girls try to attain in order to feel good about their bodies. Females are presented as weak, vulnerable, emotional, compassionate, and docile. Therefore, advertisements depict them as thin, buxom, and curvy. Advertisements convince female teenagers that women with these traits are perfect, loved, and happy. This makes them feel inadequate because of the absence of traits that define beauty and perfection.

Advertisements glamorize skinny models and depict them as perfect and beautiful. Surveys show that the average teenager in the United States sees approximately 3000 advertisements from different media outlets every day (Preiss 2007). This implies that the influence of advertisements on teenagers is immense.

Products that target girls approach the concept of beauty from unrealistic perspectives. Many celebrities undergo surgery as a way of attaining the ideal body size, shape, and complexion. This influences teenagers into opting for similar strategies. According to psychologists, body image is a psychological aspect that determines the self-esteem and self-worth of individuals (Gunter et al. 2004). It is determined by an individual’s perception of their body and the perception of other people.

Advertisements are edited and altered in order to meet the requirements of the advertiser. One of the major aims of advertisements is to create an illusion of perfection and wholeness that is associated with using certain products (Gunter & McAleer 2005). For instance, food supplements are accompanied by images of models with well-defined abs and well- toned biceps to show their effect on individual who consume them.

Representation of ideal body images in the aforementioned manner provides an unrealistic representation of celebrities, models, and other people of influence (Preiss 2007). Teenagers accept the representations as reality and therefore work towards attaining similar body shapes. Young people fail to realize that such images are altered using technology in order to create definite effects that pass certain messages (Gunter et al. 2004).

Teenagers fail to differentiate reality from fiction. Teenagers buy certain products hoping to attain the body images presented in advertisements. Another reason why teenagers are negatively influenced by advertisements is the fear of not being accepted by peers. The media presents various body shape ideals that alter the attitudes and thinking patterns of young people. For instance, teenagers worship celebrities because they are depicted as perfect (Gunter et al. 2004).

They are shown to have perfect bodies, exceptional fashion sense, and good mannerisms. In their efforts to ape celebrities, teenagers develop anxiety regarding their bodies because in many cases, they fail to attain similar shapes, sizes, and complexions (Preiss 2007). Advertisements associate certain body types with popularity and influence. For instance, well toned men are depicted as popular, influential, and amiable.

In order to protect teenagers from the negative effects of advertisements, parents and teachers should help teenagers understand that the images they see on commercials are unrealistic and fictional. Parents need to limit the amount of time their children spend online and watching TV (Preiss 2007). In addition, they should communicate regularly with their children in order to discuss various issues that affect their confidence and self-esteem.

Unhealthy eating habits and disorders

Advertising influences teenagers into embracing unhealthy eating habits that result in eating disorders (Levine 2010). Numerous media channels and forms of advertising influence the food-purchase behaviors of teenagers. These channels include kids clubs, in-school marketing, TV, internet, product placements, branded toys and products (Gunter et al. 2004). Research has revealed a connection between eating habits of teenagers and prevalence of fast food commercials on television, internet, and magazines.

Teenagers who spend a lot of time watching TV and reading magazines and newspapers are more prone to unhealthy eating habits than teenagers who spend little time watching TV. Advertisements depict sugary foods, junk food, and sweet snacks as fun and indicative of youthful vigor. According to the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, teenagers are exposed to approximately three hours of fast food commercials on a daily basis (Gunter et al. 2004).

On the other hand, more than 50 percent of the advertisements that teenagers view in a year comprise fast food and unhealthy food products (Nicolas &Good 2004). Fast food organizations target teenagers because they have the ability to alter their families’ spending plans and purchase fast foods as compared to adults. In addition, teenagers are more attracted to fast foods and sugary food products.

Advertisements encourage teenagers to consume unhealthy foods that cause disorders such as obesity. Young people who often eat in fast food restaurants are less likely to develop healthy eating habits. In restaurants that serve fast foods, menus contain few healthy options. Research has revealed that in such restaurants, only 17 percent of foods served are nutritional (Nicolas &Good 2004). In the United States, the obesity rate among teenagers is approximately 17.6 percent (Nicolas &Good 2004).

This percentage is largely due to high consumption of foods with low nutritional values. Unhealthy food habits coupled with lack of physical exercise results in disorders that have negative health outcomes. Teenagers spend a lot of time online, watching TV, and reading entertainment literature.

This contributes to exposure to fast food commercials. Advertisers aim to impress children with commercials in order to build brand loyalty (Nicolas &Good 2004). Therefore, their commercials exclude the consequences of consuming fast foods on proper growth and development (Gunter et al. 2004). Advertisers show the fun that is associated with consuming such foods. These commercials create certain impressions on the minds of teenagers and as such encourage them to consume more.

Advertisements lead to insufficient intake of nutritionally rich foods that are vital for optimal mental and physical growth. Nutrition during adolescence is an important aspect because it fosters proper growth and development. The eating habits during adolescence are carried on to adulthood. Therefore, it is necessary for teenagers to embrace healthy eating habits. Numerous studies have revealed that many teenagers in the United States have unhealthy eating habits that fail to meet standard dietary requirements.

About 15 percent of teenagers in the U.S. are obese due to poor eating habits (Nicolas &Good 2004). Obese teenagers are exposed to high risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. These health risks have negative consequences on the health and productivity of teenagers. In addition, they increase health costs associated with treatment. Lack of nutritionally rich foods has a negative effect on the growth and development of teenagers into adulthood.

Optimal mental and physical health is fostered by healthy eating habits which involve foods that contain recommended nutritional components. During puberty, the bodies of teenagers undergo increased growth, which is characterized by different changes in body form. During this stage, the bodies of adolescents require high intake of energy and nutrients for proper development (Nicolas &Good 2004). Energy and nutrient intake is largely affected by teenagers’ food choices.

The main causes of unhealthy eating habits among teenagers include peer influence, the need for autonomy, preoccupation with self image, and poor nutritional choices. Research has shown that proper nutrition plays a key role in preventing chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart diseases, stroke, and cancer (Nicolas &Good 2004). Health experts urge parents to ensure that their children embrace healthy eating habits in order to lower the risk of developing disorders and complications associated with poor nutrition.

Surveys conducted to study the nutrient intake of teenagers have revealed that teenagers’ eating habits do not fulfill the requirements of nutrient intake for optimal growth and development (Nicolas &Good 2004). Many teenagers consume fatty and sugary foods and thus limit their intake of folic acid, fiber, certain vitamins, and minerals such as Calcium and Zinc (Gunter et al. 2004). Insufficient intake of minerals has adverse effects on teenagers.

For instance, low intake of calcium and iron among teenage girls affects their cognitive functions. In addition, it alters physical performance. Low intake of calcium exposes teenagers to high risk of developing osteoporosis in adulthood (Nicolas &Good 2004). Parents and teachers can prevent the negative effects of advertisements on teenagers by encouraging healthy eating habits and teaching young people about the consequences of unhealthy diets. In addition, parents should limit their children’s calorie intake.

Violence and stereotypes

Research has revealed that advertisements perpetuate violence and stereotyping among teenagers (Rifon et al. 2014). Gender stereotyping is the main form of stereotyping perpetuated by advertisements. In commercials, women are presented as sexual objects that are meant to satisfy men’s sexual needs. In addition, the roles of women are presented as belonging to the bedroom and kitchen only. Women are required to get married, bear children, and take care of their families.

In addition, they are expected to be compassionate, loving, obedient, and submissive to their partners. Amidst these expectations, women are required to look young, healthy, and beautiful. These advertisements influence the way female teenagers are treated at home, in school, and in society (Nicolas &Good 2004).

For instance, in school, girls play certain sports and perform certain roles that limit their potential for achievement. Gender stereotypes have a negative influence on teenagers because they limit their self-expression and achievement (Nicolas &Good 2004). In addition, they suppress their creativity because teenagers act and behave based on certain societal standards and expectations.

In advertisements, males are depicted as strong, domineering, aggressive, courageous, competitive, and assertive. In contrast, females are depicted as weak, emotional, acquiescent, kind, obedient, and polite (Rifon et al. 2014). Exposure to advertisements that contain such content influences the perspectives and attitudes of teenagers in a negative way. Girls are expected to be submissive and emotional. This way of thinking affects how boys treat girls.

Gender stereotypes affect girls especially with regard to career and professional development. In certain industries, employers shy away from employing women because of the stereotypes associated with the female gender. Research has revealed that stereotypes emanate from upbringing and external influence (Gunter et al. 2004).

Gender stereotypes restrict women to certain roles, careers, and pursuits. Society punishes those who defy its rules by perpetuating criticism, violence, and ridicule. One of the main consequences of stereotyping is gender violence (Rifon et al. 2014). Men perpetuate violent acts and reactions towards women because of the common stereotype that men are supposed to be tough and aggressive (Rifon et al. 2014).

Society regards violence against women as normal. In numerous advertisements, acts of violence are considered customary and an expression of masculinity. Therefore, many communities tolerate violence and do little to squash it. Requiring women to be inferior to men undermines them and limits their potential. The media perpetuates these ills by promoting prejudices and attitudes that encourage stereotyping.

Depicting women as sexual objects encourages violence and stereotyping (Nicolas &Good 2004). Men treat women without respect because the media has conditioned them to view women as objects to satiate their sexual desires (Rifon et al. 2014). In addition, gender violence is rampant because men are conditioned to believe that they are superior to women. Therefore, any act of disrespect or opposition from a woman is unacceptable.

Men use any measure available to maintain dominion over women. The perception that women are inferior is evident in advertisements that present women as naked, weak, and submissive (Frith & Mueller 2010). Rarely do men appear in advertisements naked or submissive. Women appear naked because society treats them as sexual objects. Such advertisements affect the attitudes of young people towards women. They learn to dominate and use women for the satiation of their sexual desires.

Advertisements create long lasting negative effects on the personalities of young boys and girls. This results from long-term exposure of violent attitudes and personalities presented in advertisements. Teenagers embrace violence due to the negative influence of violent content in different advertisements.

Prolonged exposure to violence and stereotypes leads to negative impacts on the personalities of teenagers. It is imperative for parents and teachers to teach teenagers about the dangers of violence and stereotyping. In addition, they should ensure that teenagers have limited exposure to commercials and advertisements that have negative effects on their behavior, attitudes, and personalities.

Tobacco and alcohol consumption

Prolonged exposure to advertising is largely responsible for the high rate of smoking and alcohol consumption among teenagers. Highly influential platforms for advertising include magazines, television, movies, and internet. Different kinds of advertisements have diverse influences on teenagers. Advertisements in magazines and concession stands have great influence on teenagers who have never encountered alcohol in their lives.

On the other hand, advertisement displays in stores, shopping malls, and television have great influence on teenagers who have encountered alcohol use either by their parents or peers (Bryant, Zillmann & Oliver 2002). Advertisements in shopping destinations initiate teenagers to drinking and smoking due to exposure over sustained periods of time. Advertisements displayed in places that teenagers frequent link alcohol with their everyday activities.

A research study conducted in 2006 revealed that approximately 30 percent of teenagers who smoke do it because of influence from tobacco advertising (Arterburn & Burns 2007). On the other hand, a high percentage of teenagers who drink do so due to influence from alcohol advertising. One of the challenges that teenagers face is the need for peer acceptance and self-assurance (Frith & Mueller 2010). In order to satisfy these needs, they copy the behaviors of their peers and as a result, many teenagers indulge in antisocial behaviors.

As mentioned earlier, product placement in movies and TV has great influence on teenagers. For instance, in movies, alcohol is depicted as a product that helps people to relax and drown their sorrows (Shimp & Andrews 2013). This depiction makes it appealing to teenagers who develop the urge to experiment with alcohol.

The influence of alcohol commercials is augmented by the behaviors of parents who drink in the presence of their children (Arterburn & Burns 2007). It is important for parents to avoid drinking beer and smoking cigarettes in the presence of their teenage children.

Public health advocates have in numerous instances presented complaints regarding the effects of the widespread alcohol advertising in the media. Alcohol advertisements, product placements in movies and films, as well as the inclusion of alcohol lyrics in music presents an avenue through which young people learn about alcohol.

Proponents of controlled alcohol advertising argue that the rising rates of alcohol consumption among young people are largely due to constant exposure to content that encourages drinking (Strasburger 2010). Advertisers mainly use television because it is the main medium of communication that is used by teenagers. According to research, young people between the ages of 11 and 13 years watch an average of 27 hours of television every week (Ohannessian 2014).

This period is higher among young people between the ages of 14 and 19. Long periods of watching television introduces teenagers to alcohol and ingrains in their minds images of the fun associated with consuming alcohol. In many TV shows, parents consume alcohol in the presence of their children. This phenomenon is treated as a normal occurrence in families. Advertisements appeal to teenagers because they portray alcohol consumption as a sign of adulthood and maturity (Strasburger 2010).

As such, they portray drinking as a positive experience that is enjoyable and pleasurable. Prolonged exposure to advertising shapes the attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors of teenagers toward drinking. Gradually, young people embrace the belief that drinking is fun and an important recreational activity. In addition, they learn to associate drinking with personality traits such as elegance and sociability (Ohannessian 2014).

This increases underage drinking that manifests in negative consequences such as accidents, risky behaviors, and poor academic performance. The government, parents, and schools are doing their best to ensure that teenagers stay away from drugs and alcohol. However, they are finding it difficult because of the role played by advertisements. Despite their efforts, more than $25 billion worth of advertisements is diluting their efforts (Strasburger 2010).

Enhancement of teenager’s propensity to risk

The human brain undergoes a process of development that peaks during adolescence. Adolescence is a human development stage characterized by rebelliousness, dangerous experimentation, and extensive risk taking (Ohannessian 2014). Teenagers are attracted to products that are likely to satisfy their need for instant pleasure and rebellion (Shimp & Andrews 2013). Alcohol and cigarettes are major products that parents caution their children from using.

These products develop an urge in teenagers that prompts them to drink and smoke as a way of experimenting and rebelling against their parents. Many teenagers drink and smoke because alcohol and cigarettes are associated with risky behavior, instant gratification, and independence (Frith & Mueller 2010). Advertisements link alcohol and cigarettes with outcomes such as enjoyment and acceptance by peers.

The need for acceptance and pleasure encourages teenagers to drink and smoke. Extended exposure to tobacco and alcohol advertising has adverse effects on the attitudes of teenagers (Ohannessian 2014). It shapes their perceptions and attitudes with regard to alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking. These attitudes and perceptions consequently create positive links between drinking or smoking and having fun or gaining acceptance from peers (Ohannessian 2014).

Advertisements contain content that encourages teenagers to engage in behaviors such as drinking, smoking, and drug abuse (Shimp, & Andrews 2013). Research has established a relationship between several risky behaviors. For instance, teenagers who engage in risky sexual behaviors are more likely to drink alcohol and use drugs than teenagers who do not. Advertisements are very effective in altering the attitudes and beliefs of teenagers regarding different products.

This explains why companies sue billions of dollars in advertisements and marketing projects. According to a report released by the World Health Organization (WHO), advertising accounts for approximately 30% of all cases of drinking and smoking among teenagers (Strasburger 2010). One of the negative effects of cigarette advertising is that it increases the risk of teenagers smoking cigarettes and soft drugs such as marijuana.

Many young people use cigarettes as a gateway substance to other drugs (Shimp, & Andrews 2013). Advertising depicts smoking as fun and glamorous. In addition, it presents smokers are autonomous, adventurous, fun-loving, and trendy (Strasburger 2010). In contrast, the numerous negative effects of smoking are not highlighted. Despite government’s efforts to compel cigarette companies to take more responsibilities with regard to promoting good health, the efforts have not borne fruits.

Advertising in trendy teenage magazines dilutes the efforts of parents in instilling good values in their children. According to numerous studies, cases of smoking are rampant among teenagers who own items with labels of certain cigarette brands and teenagers who enjoy reading about cigarette ads in magazines (Shimp, & Andrews 2013). A meta-analysis involving 51 distinct studies on the effects of advertising on teenagers revealed that tobacco advertising increases the risk of teenagers smoking by more than 50% (Strasburger 2010).

Advertising also encourages teenagers to use prescription drugs because it presents them as the cure for all their problems (Strasburger 2010). For instance, there are pills for weight loss, weight gain, birth control, sexual intercourse, and improved performance in school. According to government statistics, prescription drugs companies spend approximately $4 billion on advertising every year (Strasburger 2010).

Prescription drugs advertisements encourage teenagers to use certain products in order to solve their problems. Drugs such as birth control pills and condoms encourage teenagers to engage in risky sexual activities because of the misguided notion that they protect them. For instance, many teenage pregnancies can be attributed to the reckless use of birth control solutions available in the market.

Research has shown that wrong use of emergency contraception has adverse effects on women who use them for prolonged periods. Many teenage girls use emergency contraception in efforts to avoid pregnancies without considering the consequences of their prolonged use.

Conclusion

Negative influences of advertising on teenagers include embracement of unhealthy eating habits, lack of self-esteem and confidence, perpetuation of violence and stereotypes, proliferation of drinking and smoking, enhancement of teenagers’ propensity to risk, and development of anxiety regarding one’s body image. After a thorough discussion of the negative effects of advertisements on teenagers, it has emerged that it is imperative for parents and teachers to address the issue.

Teenagers need to be educated about the differences between reality and fiction, the negative effects of violence and stereotypes, and the importance of healthy eating habits on their growth and development. Advertisements create anxiety among teenagers regarding their bodies, encourage unhealthy eating habits, enhance teenagers’ propensity to risk, link drinking and smoking with positive outcomes, and perpetuate stereotypes and violence.

This issue needs to be addressed because the habits developed during adolescent are carried forward to adulthood. The proliferation of technology has introduced numerous challenges that teenagers encounter in their daily activities. It is important for parents and teachers to limit the time that teenagers spend online and watching TV. In additional, it is very important for the government to enact legislation that protects children and young people against the negative influence of advertisements.

Adolescence is a development stage that is characterized by rebelliousness, risk taking, and dangerous experimentation. Numerous research studies have shown that advertising has far reaching effects on the attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors of teenagers. Products such as alcohol, cigarettes, and prescription drugs are depicted as fun, trendy, and necessary for a good life.

On the other hand, junk food, unrealistic body images, and violence are glamorized. The glamour encourages teenagers to embrace them and incorporate them as important aspects to guide their lives. It is important for parents and teachers to guide teenagers in order to help avoid risky behaviors that are perilous to their wellbeing.

References

Arterburn, S & Burns, J 2007, How to Talk to Your Kids about Drugs, Harvest House Publishers, New York.

Berger, A 2011, Ads, Fads, and Consumer Culture: Advertising’s Impact on American Character and Society, Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, New York.

Bryant, J, Zillmann, D & Oliver, M 2002, Media Effects: Advances in Theory and Research, Routledge, New York.

Frith, K & Mueller, B 2010, Advertising and Societies: Global Issues, Peter Lang, London.

Gunter, B & McAleer, J 2005, Children and Television, Routledge, New York.

Gunter, B, Oates, C & Blades, M 2004, Advertising to Children on TV: Content, Impact and Regulation, Routledge, New York.

Kirsh, S 2010, Media and Youth: A Development perspective, John Wiley & Sons, New York.

Levine, R 2010, The Power of Persuasion: How we are Bought and Sold, John Wiley & Sons, New York.

Nicolas, S & Good, T 2004, America’s Teenagers Myths and Realities: Media Images, Schooling, and the Social Costs of Careless Indifference, Routledge New York.

Ohannessian, C 2014, Risks and Problem Behaviors during Adolescence, Routledge, New York.

Preiss, R 2007, Mass media Effects Research: Advances through Meta-Analysis, Psychology Press, New York.

Rifon, N, Royne, M & Carlson, L 2014, Advertising and Violence: Concepts and Perspectives, M. E. Sharpe, New York.

Schudson, M 2013, Advertising, the Uneasy Persuasion (RLE Advertising): Its Dubious Impact on American Society, Routledge, New York.

Shimp, T & Andrews, C 2013, Advertising Promotion and Other Aspects of Integrated Marketing Communications, Cengage Learning, New York.

Strasburger, V 2010, Children, Adolescents, Substance Abuse, and the Media. PEDIATRICS, vol. 126, no. 40, pp. 791-799.

Introduction

Substance abuse among teenagers is increasingly becoming a common phenomenon in the community. Substance abuse involves the use of drugs such as alcohol, tobacco and marijuana. Research on the use of drugs among teenagers indicates that majority begin using the drugs as early as the age of 9 years (Fisher and Harrison 43). The use of drugs among teenagers is responsible for the poor academic performance among those who use them.

Besides, substance abuse has led to an increase in diseases such as lung cancer among teenagers (Fisher and Harrison 56). The efforts made by the government and the parents to address this problem have yielded little results. It is against this backdrop that I intend to organize a social event that aims at sensitizing teenagers on the effects of substance abuse.

The Event

The Participants

The event will be held on 25^th of January 2011 at the community’s social hall. The preparations will begin a day earlier. The preparations will involve advertising the event through posters and decorating the venue (Kilkenny 78).

The event will start at 9: 30 am and end at 5:30 pm. The speakers will include parents, teenagers and community health officers. The speakers will be asked to volunteer and offer their advice for free. All participants will be asked to carry packed foodstuffs and drinks.

However, the guest speakers will be given free food and drinks. Apart from the education, there will be entertainment activities such as singing competitions. The entertainers will be the participating teenagers who have a talent in singing and can volunteer to perform within a short notice.

The Agenda of the Event

The theme of the event will be “promoting behavior change through social networks”. The event aims at persuading teenagers to stop substance abuse in the neighborhood. The first step will involve sensitizing the teenagers on the negative effects of substance abuse. This will be followed by an explanation on how to cope with the problem of substance abuse.

This aims at helping those who are already involved in substance abuse to manage their conditions. Finally, the teenagers will be educated on how to avoid the use of drugs. The education will focus on how teenagers can use social networks such as twitter and facebook to share information on the dangers of substance abuse and how to avoid or cope with it.

Objectives

The event aims at achieving three main objectives. First, it aims at creating awareness among venerable teenagers on the dangers of substance abuse. Second, it seeks to equip the teenagers with the knowledge and skills that they can use to avoid substance abuse. The skills will also help them to cope with the problem.

Finally, the event aims at promoting responsibility among teenagers through sharing information with the help of social networks and peer education. The main goal is to reduce cases of substance abuse among teenagers.

Time Table

Budget

Works Cited

Fisher, Gary and Thomas Harrison. Substance abuse: information for school counselors. New York: Pearson, 2008. Print.

Kilkenny, Shannon. The complete guide to successful event planning. New York: Atlantic Publishing Company, 2006. Print.

Teenager’s program

Admittedly, various shows have become an indispensible part of people’s life. Teenagers also like watching certain programs. More so, they often find the necessary answers to their questions. Therefore, teenagers need a program which could address their needs. Join Us can be such a program. It will address the most important issues which are essential for teenagers. The show will focus on such themes as status, cruelty, gender roles, etc.

The program’s layout

The program will have quite a specific format. In the first place, the hosts will be teenagers. It is possible to have four hosts: two girls and two boys. There will be no studio audience. However, viewers will be able to make calls. More so, the Internet will also be excessively used. The hosts will actively use Facebook and Twitter (maybe Skype) during the program.

Viewers will be able to ask their questions on the topic. The hosts will discuss these questions. The hosts will invite various guests competent in this or that issue. Apart from this, hosts will make video reports. They will take interviews in schools and in the streets. This program will be weekly. The viewers will have the opportunity to choose topics for the programs. There will be a kind of poll online. Viewers will also come up with their ideas and their stories.

Major themes

It goes without saying that teenagers face many issues. For instance, issues concerning status are quite important for teenagers. Admittedly, teenagers try to obtain certain status. Therefore, the host will discuss various problems concerning the matter. However, it is important to encourage young people to be unique and pay less attention to statuses. Of course, the program should not be too didactic. However, viewers should learn a particular lesson during each program.

Issues of cruelty has also come to the fore recently. Here the hosts can address problems concerning violence. Admittedly, teenagers can be regarded as the most vulnerable group. They often have to endure domestic or peer violence. The hosts should interview those who were victims of violent actions or even those who were initiators of conflict situations.

Apart from this, many other cases of cruelty should also be covered in the program: mockery, bullying, etc. Furthermore, teenagers should be acquainted with gender issues. The hosts will discuss cases when some people were suppressed due to their gender. The hosts will also help viewers find successful strategies to avoid certain problems.

Other topics

Apart from serious issues, some series of the program (or some parts of the program) should address ‘less’ important problems. For instance, the host can provide some tips for completing assignments, passing exams, preparing for a party, choosing a present for a friend, etc.

This will make program more interesting and helpful as teenagers often have difficulties with their school assignments. They also can have difficulties with developing proper relationships with peers. The program will help viewers to solve all those problems.

Popularity of Join Us

The program will become popular among teenagers as it will address some burning issues. The program will provide teenagers with answers they need. The use of the Internet will help the program to remain up-to-date. Viewers will have an opportunity to influence the choice of topics for discussion. Therefore, this will be a very helpful program for teenagers.

Freaks, Geeks, and Cool Kids is a book by Murray Milner that explains teenagers’ behaviors in American high schools. The author of the book turns the readers’ attention to how teenagers’ lives are organized in secondary schools across America. In addition, the book addresses how these formations shape these teenagers’ lives. In this book, Milner tries to explain teenagers’ behaviors. The book also addresses other related issues like consumerism, teenage culture, and status systems in American schools.

This book was put together after the author embarked on a two-year field research. Moreover, Milner used over three hundred written interviews from students. Through these interviews, the students detailed the status systems in their respective high schools. These written interviews were collected from twenty-seven states across the country. The author uses his fifty years of contact with teenagers to legitimize his observations.

One of the author’s claims is that teen culture shapes America’s consumer society. In his social research, the author begins by posing two questions. In the first instance, the author questions teenagers’ behaviors. The other question addresses the connection between teen culture and the rest of the society. These two questions act as the guide to Milner’s qualitative research.

Milner’s research findings are presented in a narrative and outlined in chapter form. The first part of the book is titled “The Puzzle and the Tools”. In this part, the author presents his two research questions. In this case, his initial hypothesis is that teens model their behavior according to the mores in their surrounding environment.

To get his point across, he fronts the theory of status relations. This theory investigates what status is and how it is related to power. In addition, it is in this part that the author introduces the limitations of his research. According to the book, it is not the author’s mission to test the theory’s effect on teen-age culture. Instead, the author’s mission is to show the efficacy of the theory in relation to the information we already have concerning teenagers.

The second part of the book is titled “Explaining Teen’s Behaviors”. In this part, the author strives to show the application of his status theory. For instance, he starts by using the famous quote that “taste classifies and it classifies the classifier”.

This is a deliberate way of correlating high school culture with the status theory. This part consists of three chapters. The first chapter, which is titled “Fitting in, Standing Out, and Keeping Up”, addresses what teenagers go through just to conform to aspects that seem more acceptable. Such aspects include beauty and athletic ability.

Other aspects that fall under this category include the type of language and speech forms used by teenagers. The second chapter is titled “Steering Clear, Hanging out, and Hooking Up”, and is an analysis of among other things the gossip associated with teens. The last chapter in this part covers labels and put-downs in a teenager’s life. All of the subtopics discussed above are pointers into how teens imitate the society in matters of reaching for and recognizing status.

The author of the book clearly states that it is not the American schools that make the teenagers behave in this manner. Instead, these behaviors are the main framework of how our society is shaped. The outcome of this behavior is a social system in which lifestyle differences and status are at the center.

Such claims carry a lot of weight because it means poor parenting and immaturity are not solely to blame for America’s consumerism and status systems. From this book, it is clear that some of the undesirable traits found in grownups were adapted in the adolescent stage. This is when obsession with matters like dating protocol, dress codes, or who sits with whom in the cafeteria dominates a teenager’s life.

These obsessions in turn shape the adulthood of the said teenager. Moreover, for one to gain admission in any status in life, one has to conform to the dynamics of the group of people associated with this status. This fact gives rise to undesirable dynamics such as alienation of adolescents with disabilities. The general idea in this part of the book is that money and consumerism brings about status. This status or power is usually the determinant of success.

The third part of the book addresses how status systems vary in different schools. The author classifies American high schools into two, pluralistic and other types of schools. Pluralistic schools refer to those institutions that have a more diverse population. The other types of schools as addressed by the author refer to those institutions that have some form of uniformity like military schools, religious schools, and small town schools among others.

According to the book, status systems are less harmful in pluralistic schools. In the other types of schools, the less population makes the effects of alienation more severe. This concern has been addressed in various forums around the country especially in debates addressing the suitability of public schools. For instance, there has been pressure on most private schools to embrace more diversity in their student populations.

This is because private schools are more associated with status systems and consumerism. The author suggests that in order to counter the effects of status systems, schools should do away with activities that foster self-expression. These include activities like singing, dancing, and sports among others. This seems like an unrealistic claim but future research may help shed light on the matter.

The author chose “Teen Status Systems and Consumerism” as the title for the fourth part of the book. The title is an overall summation of the book’s main topic. Hence, this part consists of the findings, implications, and a conclusion of Milner’s research. Among the findings of this research is the fact that although consumerism and high schools are not related, they are intertwined.

In addition, it is clear that high school students are pushed to embrace consumerism through the various adverts that target them. The book cites the teenagers’ quest for trendy designer jeans, cars, and cell phones as an outcome of these advertising campaigns. Milner finds out that teenagers’ struggle for conformity and fierceness when protecting their turfs are just some of the reactions they have to their assigned positions. Therefore, their quest for status is fueled by the little power given to them by adults.

Another finding confirms that the groups at the top have to keep redefining the norms of their membership. In addition, for one group to move up, another has to move down. In conclusion, the clothes, the cars, music, demeanor, dancing, gadgets, and body language are just an adolescent’s means of acquiring and displaying status. Therefore, learning how to consume is one of the main lessons taught in high schools around America.

Freaks, Geeks, and Cool Kids is a prolific book that gets through to most of its targeted audience. This audience includes scholars, teenagers, undergraduate students, and non-scholars. The book takes everyone back to his or her high school days and there is no dispute about its portrayal of high school hierarchies.

The author of the book was careful in his analysis and did not stretch his data to unrealistic levels. The book also made a successful connection between high school culture and trends in the society. Another strong point of Milner’s research is that it does not offer unrealistic predictions about what direction status systems may take in future.

The status theory that is introduced in this book is well carried from the beginning to the end. One area that the book failed to address fully is on the first and second parts. The author could have created a more robust link between educational organizations and status cultures. The author seemed hesitant to take on a more academic path. This would have helped him make this link conclusively. The author made a lot of effort in explaining high school culture and lingo.

Given his targeted audience, this was not necessary. This is because the intended audience consists of people who are familiar with high school. Overall, the book is quite engaging and may be an important tool even for students who may not be familiar with research methodologies. The book offers great understanding into how social scientists examine adolescents, education systems, and societies.

Abstract

This paper attempts to investigate the effects of underage drinking on the academic development of the teenagers. In effect the question which is posed in this research seeks to investigate the severity of the effects of alcohol abuse on the school attendance of the teenagers.

The effects which arise as a result of underage drinking and which ultimately affects their academic development impact on three areas. One of the possible areas that alcohol abuse impacts on is the teenager’s brain development. It has been argued that it is during adolescence that the part of the human brain responsible for the regulation of emotion develops.

The other possible effect of alcohol abuse is on the personality of the teenager. This is because alcohol has a way of inhibiting rational thinking. As a result the person concerned reacts to very minor problems in anger, he is always anxiety as well as developing dependence on alcohol which ends up hurting his progress academically. At the same time, the students find it very difficult to relate to figures in authority.

In addition, alcohol abuse has an effect on the learning ability of the students. This is as a result of the fact that alcohol abuse can severely impair the part of the brain which is responsible for memory due to the fact that the human brain at this stage is very vulnerable.

The rationale of the study is to investigate the effects of underage drinking on the academic development of the teenagers. This will provide critical information which can be used to craft the necessary policies in order to address this problem.

The method used in this research to collect the information is by use of questionnaire. This was used to collect the information about the extent of the effects of underage drinking on the academic development of the teenagers.

Introduction

It is has been noted that teenagers who start taking alcohol have a problem in as far as their academic development is concerned. For this reason it is important that the parents play an active role in the lives of their children; by giving them sound advice and also ensuring that they act as appropriate role models.

This sometimes entails being protective and keeping track of the company that the teenager keeps as well as the places which they visit. This will in turn make the child accountable and he is likely to keep away from the places and the company that the parents disapprove (Gifford 2009).

According to Gifford (2009), if the parents do not advise their teenagers appropriately, they are likely to get the wrong information from the media as well as from their peers. It has been pointed out that the time that the teenager spends taking alcohol could be used more constructively in academic pursuits.

Additionally, Myers and Isralowitz (2011) argue that the teenagers are more likely to be adversely affected by alcohol abuse more than adults would. This is because it is during the adolescence stage that the brain develops and any disruption on this development is likely to have very detrimental effect on the life of that teenager.

It is the responsibility of the parents, teachers, government as well as any other relevant stakeholders to ensure that the teenagers are sufficiently protected to ensure that they do not engage in underage drinking. Therefore, alcohol drinking in teenagers has an effect of adversely affecting the ability of the teenagers to develop academically as it disrupts their learning ability.

Literature review

Effects of underage drinking on Development

According to Hannigan et al. (1999), there are various stages in human development. The stages can be enumerated as-childhood, adolescence and then the transition into adulthood.

It has been argued that alcohol abuse starts during early adolescence and then levels off when the teenagers are getting into their twenties. Alcohol abuse in teenagers has an effect of affecting their character and behavior.

According to Galanter (2005), some behaviors that can help a parent in identifying whether the teenager has been initiated in alcohol abuse include: the teenager has a problem in interacting with others, poor self control, problem with depression, and also extreme shyness.

These signs could point out to the possibility that the teenagers could be engaging in alcohol abuse and this could have a profound effect on his development. It can also be argued that those teenagers who have extreme behavioral and personality disorders are the ones who are more likely to develop alcohol disorders even in adulthood.

According to Castillo (2009), it can also be argued that children who have been brought up in families which have conducive environment are less likely to engage in alcohol abuse. This conducive family environment is fostered by parents who are responsive to the needs of their children.

This in turns helps the parents to be attentive to the behavior of their children and to be in a better position to rectify errant behavior including underage drinking.

Conversely those children who are brought up in dysfunctional families are more likely to engage in underage drinking with very disastrous effects. In addition, those teenagers who are brought up in families whose parents are struggling with alcohol disorders are more likely to engage in teenage drinking.

It has also been pointed out that during the adolescence stage teenagers starts to identify more with their peers. It is at this stage that these peers might start to pressurize the teenager to conform to the negative practices prevalent in the peer group. This negative behavior may include alcohol and drug abuse. The teenagers may resort to engage in alcohol abuse so that they can gain acceptance in the group (Park 2008).

According to Bonnie and O’Connell (2004), there are two major factors which might influence the teenager to engage in alcohol abuse. These factors are: environmental influences and genetic influences. In early adolescence stage when the teenager is being initiated in alcohol drinking the factors which are likely to come into play are the environmental factors.

However, in late adolescent stages the factors which are more likely to influence the likelihood of alcohol abuse are the genetic influences. These genetic influences could be specifically related to alcohol abuse or have an influence on the character of the teenager that can predispose him to engage in alcohol abuse.

According to Tsuang and Stone (2007), it is also known that the different regions of the brain do not all develop at the same time. Regions like the one responsible for regulation of emotions develop during the period of early adolescence.

This is because the hormones which are responsible for the development of this region are also the same ones which set the stage for one to get into puberty. On the other hand, the frontal cortex which is responsible for self regulation and decision making develops with time even after the end of the adolescence stage.

This is the reason why the adolescence stage is marked by heightened emotions with very little control over ones actions. This sets the stage for alcohol abuse especially if the youth is not properly mentored and guided by the parents.

Another factor which predisposes the teenagers to alcohol abuse is the differences in alcohol sensitivity between the adolescents and the adults. It has been proven that the adolescents are less likely to feel the effects of alcohol abuse acutely as compared to the adults.

This explains why the teenagers can engage in much heavier heavy drinking without feeling the same level of physiological effects experienced by the adults. This in effect implies that the teenagers are more likely to engage in heavy drinking which has the effect of impairing their development process (Tsuang and Stone 2007).

Myers and Isralowitz (2011) claim that alcohol abuse in teenagers is likely to affect: school attendance, the development of the brain, concentration, and the relationships that the teenager has with the parents and peers. All these effects will have a profound effect on the future of the teenagers in becoming productive members of the society.

Additionally, it is argued that the teenagers who engage in underage drinking are more likely to engage in alcohol abuse in adulthood and possibly develop dependence on alcohol. It is also known that adolescents are more prone to the negative effects on memory due to alcohol abuse as compared to the adults. Research has also shown that teenagers are also more susceptible to brain damage than the adults.

Effects of underage drinking on personality

According to Goldberg (2005), alcohol abuse has a way of impacting on our personality adversely. If alcohol abuse is allowed to go on for long it often leads to depression, anxiety and anger.

The most unfortunate thing is that the consumption of alcohol may inhibit the ability of the person to reflect on his actions thereby making him to act on the above mentioned negative traits with often very disastrous effects. Teenagers who engage in alcohol abuse may become withdrawn and generally unwilling to be part of the society. Alcohol abuse has the ability to turn a very gentle person into a very unreasonable one.

However, the concerned person might not even be aware of the changes and even in instances where they are aware they may even deny that they have a problem therefore making it very difficult for the concerned person to request for professional assistance.

According to Reiss et al. (1993), alcohol abuse affects the way we react to normal occurrences; the person who has been affected tends to overreact when faced with very minor problems. On the other hand, when faced with very major problem the person often resorts to anger and physical abuse.

During the initiation stage in alcohol abuse, a person may realize that he is somewhat in control of how much beer that he consumes. However, if the person persists in alcohol abuse he is very likely to develop dependence on alcohol such that he cannot be able to engage in any activity without consuming alcohol.

In fact, the problem may persist until he gets to a point where he cannot solve any problem but actually turns to alcohol abuse to avoid the responsibility of having to face his responsibilities head on.

Furthermore, the person gets to a point where he takes alcohol in order to alleviate depression. According to Schuckit (2005), instead of alcohol helping to lessen depression, it might actually lead to more depression. This is because the person develops tolerance to alcohol such that he requires more alcohol each time in order to alleviate the depression.

Alcohol is also known to have an effect of lessening anxiety. In fact, it is argued that when alcohol is taken in moderation it might help in calming the nerves. Nonetheless, when the consumption of alcohol exceeds a particular amount it might actually result into more anxiety.

This forms a vicious cycle in that the person has to engage in more drinking in order to alleviate the anxiety. Finally, in the process the person might actually develop dependence on alcohol.

According to Schuckit (2005), alcohol abuse results to a situation where the person actually shifts his goals in life such that everything revolves around alcohol. Consumption of alcohol becomes the most important thing in that person’s life. Everything else just fades into comparison.

If it is a teenager he might actually neglect his studies which impacts negatively on his academic pursuits and on his ability to become a productive member of the society. This heavy dependence on alcohol has an effect of affecting the relationship that the person has with those who are close to him like the family and friends.

As a result when confronted with a very small problem, the person will most likely react by being violent. This is because alcohol ends up impairing his ability to think rationally therefore resulting to those angry and violent outbursts.

Alcohol abuse has an effect on the learning process of the person concerned. This is because inhibits the synthesis of proteins in the neurons of the brain which is crucial in the encoding of new information. This can result to a situation where the person easily gets disoriented with loud noises and bright lights.

Learning process may also be hampered by the dependency that comes along with alcohol abuse. This is because the person must always consume alcohol in order to perform even the most basic of all tasks.

In addition, alcohol affects the ability of the person to get sufficient sleep. This is because alcohol interferes with the sleeping pattern such that if the person is disturbed while sleeping he is not likely to resume sleeping.

Effects of underage drinking on the Learning process

Ammerman et al. (1999), adduces that the adolescent brain is more susceptible to alcohol. In fact, is argued that the teenagers are more likely to suffer from dysfunctional memory as a result of the effects of alcohol abuse. This can have a significant effect on the learning capability of the teenagers.

It is claimed that the most severe neurological damage on teenagers as a result of alcohol damage occurs in the region in the brain which is responsible for learning and memory. This ultimately implies that underage drinking has the effect of hampering the learning ability and intellectual development of the adolescents.

Other effects that might affect the learning ability of the adolescents are the sleep disturbance, depression, as well as alcohol intoxication and withdrawal symptoms. All these factors might contribute to the deterioration of the academic performance of the concerned students.

Alcohol abuse also affects the ability of the students to attend classes regularly as well as derailing the students from being able to catch up on their schoolwork. This arrested intellectual development occurring during adolescence stage is likely to persist even in adulthood.

Consequently, it is advocated that the teenagers should be protected against the promotions and advertisement which tends to glorify alcohol consumption in order to preclude them against engaging in alcohol consumption which ultimately lead to alcohol abuse.

Methodology

The method used in the collection of the relevant data is by use of questionnaire. It seeks to investigate the effects of alcohol abuse with regard to school attendance. The questionnaire is in form of questions.

The questions posed in the questionnaire include: The severity of the effects of alcohol abuse on the school attendance of the teenagers affected by alcohol abuse. The respondents were supposed to rate the effects of alcohol abuse on a scale of between one and ten. With one representing the least severe effect and ten used to denote the most severe.

The respondents selected for the purpose of this research were drawn from diverse field with the majority being drawn from the education sector. The sampling method used in drawing the participants is the probability sampling method where all the members of the selected population had an equal chance of being selected to participate in the study (McBurney and White 2009).

This was intended to avoid bias. In addition, the respondents were drawn such that there was equal representation of male and females. The objective of this research was to gather information on the severity of the effects of drug abuse on the affected underage drinkers.

This was informed by the fact that inability of the students to attend class due to alcohol abuse has a profound effect on their academic development. This has an effect of affecting the future of these teenagers to become useful members of the society (Ammerman et al.1999).

Results and discussion

The results of the research indicated that the majority of the respondents believed that alcohol abuse had severe effects on the school attendance of the affected students. This is because it has been proven that alcohol abuse is one of the leading cases that cause drop outs among the students. This has a detrimental effect on the ability of the students to exert themselves in academic pursuits.

This is exacerbated by the fact that alcohol abuse leads to inability by the affected students to consistently attend classes as well as catch up on their school work. At the same time, the student spends a lot of time dealing with the hangover which comes with drug abuse.

Another reason why the academic development might be hampered is because of the negative effect that the alcohol abuse could have on the brain development of the concerned teenagers (Thatcher 2011).

Moreover, according to Christine Bichler (2000), “alcohol use affects decision making which can result in poor choices that influence everything from physical and mental health to relationships with friends, family, and peers, as well as work and study habits and other habits that affect your (teens’) future” (p. 8).

At the same time, the dependence that comes with alcohol abuse results to a situation where the student cannot concentrate in class unless he consumes alcohol. It can be concluded that the older members of the society have failed to act as effective role models and this have had an effect of encouraging the teenagers to engage in alcohol abuse.

It has been pointed out that alcohol abuse is one of the top reasons why teenagers drop out of school. In fact it has been reported that about half of the high school students claim to have taken alcohol at least once. One of the most notable sign which indicate that the teenager is engaging in underage drinking is a drop in academic performance in school.

This is exacerbated by failure to attend all the classes as well as the fact that those teenagers have a problem in dealing with figures of authority like the teachers. In addition, this drop in performance can be attributed to the fact that the teenagers often gets in trouble at home due to his failure to abide by the laid down rules at home.

Alcohol abuse is also the avenue which ushers in the teenagers to engage in consumption of other hard drugs like marijuana and cocaine (Torr 2002).

Conclusion

In order to ensure that the teens do not engage in underage drinking, it is important that early intervention strategies should be instituted to ensure that those teenagers who are more likely to engage in underage drinking are well catered for to ensure that they do not engage in it.

At the same time, all the stakeholders who are involved in the development of the child should be enlightened on what signs they should look out for in a teenager who engages in alcohol abuse. This will help them to offer the necessary support and help to those teenagers to help them to stop alcohol abuse.

Another strategy that can be used to prevent the teenagers against engaging in alcohol abuse is educating them on the dangers of drug abuse. This training should entail teaching the teenagers about the positive coping skills in order to prevent them from engaging in alcohol abuse.

Some of the stakeholders who can contribute in educating the youth about the dangers of alcohol abuse include the churches and community agencies. All in all, everybody in the community needs to get involved in protecting the teenagers against alcohol abuse with a view to enabling them to be achieve their academic pursuits.

It has been noted that the effects of the alcohol abuse on the teenagers impacts on their social development, their personality as well as on their learning development. All these have a great bearing on the ability of the teenagers to advance academically. At the same time, alcohol abuse impairs the ability of the teenagers to be able to concentrate fully in class or even while studying.

However, another interesting thing to note is that alcohol abuse creates dependence which impedes on the ability of the person concerned to be able to face life challenges with a view to looking for solution. Consequently, this impacts on the ability of the person to be able to exert and work hard in school in order to succeed academically.

In order to reduce the likelihood of the teenagers engaging in alcohol abuse the teachers and parents should cooperate and ensure that all the students get the right information on alcohol abuse. At the same time, the government should step in and ensure that all the advertisement that seeks to encourage underage drinking should be eliminated.

Reference List

Ammerman, R. Ott, P. and Tarter, R. (1999). Prevention and societal impact of drug and alcohol abuse. Mahwah, NJ: Taylor & Francis.

Bichler, C. (2000). Teen Drinking. New York: The Rosen Publishing Group.

Bonnie, R. and O’Connell, M. (2004). Reducing Underage Drinking: A Collective Responsibility. Washington, DC: National Academies Press.

Castillo, K. (2009). The Causes That Lead Teenagers to Drug and Alcohol Abuse. Norderstedt, Germany: GRIN Verlag.

Galanter, M (2005). Alcohol Problems in Adolescents and Young Adults. Newyork, NY: Plenum Publishers.

Gifford, M. (2009). Alcoholism. Santa Barbara, California: ABC-CLIO.

Goldberg, R. (2005). Drugs across the spectrum. Belmont, CA: Thomson Higher Education.

Hannigan, J. Spear, L. and Spear, N. (1999). Alcohol and alcoholism: effects on brain and development. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.

McBurney, D. and White, T. (2009). Research Methods. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning.

Myers, P. and Isralowitz, R. (2011). Alcohol. Santa Barbara, California: Greenwood Publishing Group.

Park, J (2008). Korean American adolescents’ alcohol abuse. Ann Arbor, MI: ProQuest LLC.

Reiss, A. Roth, J and Miczek, K. (1993). Understanding and Preventing Violence: Social influences. Washington, DC: National Academies Press.

Schuckit, M. (2005). Drug and Alcohol Abuse: A Clinical Guide to Diagnosis And Treatment, New York, NY: Springer.

Thatcher, R. (2011). Thinkin’ Drinkin’: From the Teen Years Forward: A Rational, Safe, Worry-Free Approach to Lifetime Alcohol Use or Abstinence. Bloomington, IN: Balboa Press.

Torr, J. (2002). Teens and alcohol. Chicago, IL: Greenhaven Press.

Tsuang, M. and Stone, W. (2007). Recognition And Prevention of Major Mental and Substance Use Disorder. Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.

Modern day students have access to a multitude of high-tech devices. Computers, smartphones, and audio players are an essential part of their every-day lives. That means that whenever a student is doing homework or working in the classroom, he or she is going to be confronted with the problem of media multitasking – using his devices for purposes other than learning. While multitasking can be a positive practice, it is harmful to most students, resulting in lower scores and slower information processing.

According to the research by Larry Rosen, published in the journal Computers in Human Science, students spend up to 45% of their homework time on various tasks unrelated to their studies (Paul 2013, par.3). During classes, the situation is no different. Students often get distracted by their phones or use their laptops for unauthorized activities. Such diversions are difficult to control for teachers, as well as for the students themselves. Often, students think that they are able to multitask effectively, without sacrificing their studies. However, the research shows that it is true in only 5% of all cases (Weimer 2010 par.1).The research indicates that most students using laptops for unrelated activities suffer a drop in their course scores. They tend to be distracted by multitasking and to process information much slower (Weimer 2010 par. 4-6). The most common activity students undertake while learning is the use of various social media and messaging services. That is a very mentally taxing task since it requires the use of language and understanding-related parts of the brain. It diverts resources from the studies as they require the resources of the same brain centers. David Meyer, a psychology professor at the University of Michigan, says: “Under most conditions, the brain simply cannot do two complex tasks at the same time. It can happen only when the two tasks are both very simple and when they don’t compete with each other for the same mental resources” (Paul 2013 par. 16). There is little wonder why multitasking has such a negative effect on students.

But why do teenagers multitask? It seems that they should be aware of the resulting problems. The answer is simple: multitasking makes us feel good. As the research indicates, that entertainment gained from secondary activities during studies makes learners feel better emotionally (Nierenberg 2012 par. 7). Watching TV or talking to your friends via email is pleasant and helps students fight boredom they feel doing homework or listening to a lecture they find boring. Another reason the students multitask is that they simply do not see the negative impact it has on their coursework. Teenagers often overrate their abilities. They don’t see how a couple of seconds spend on a message can get in the way of their studies, or how a TV show in the background diverts their attention from a textbook they are trying to read. Those seemingly tiny distractions, however, result in a constant need to switch focus and filter information, straining the brain and making the process inefficient (Hill 2012 par. 5). While multitasking might be pleasant, it is highly detrimental if a person needs to concentrate and dedicate all the mental energy to a difficult task.

However, the effects of multitasking are not entirely negative. The research conducted by the University of Hong Kong indicates that people who routinely multitask are able to use their senses in conjunction more easily (Daily Mail Reporter 2012, par. 7). Other research also shows that multitasking has a positive effect on the ability to pass judgment and solve problems quickly and efficiently (CultureTutor.net 2014, par.7). Overall, the strain of multitasking trains our brain to quickly switch focus and to process multiple stimuli at the same time. The article posted on CultureTutor.net even insists that people should multitask whenever they have an opportunity. However, the article points out, that only tasks that are not mentally taxing can be put into “background mode” (CultureTutor.net 2014 par.13). That is the reason why multitasking is a poor practice for students. Learning is one of the most demanding tasks our brain can perform. Combining it with other high cognitive activities like communication or watching TV completely undermines the brain’s ability to perform any of those tasks efficiently.

The phenomenon of multitasking is not inherently bad. Julius Caesar is said to have been able to do five things at once, which didn’t stop him from becoming one of the most prominent leaders in the ancient history. The problem with the multitasking teenagers is that an average teenager is not Caesar. They overestimate their abilities and multitask not out of necessity but because it feels good. The negative effect this practice has on the learning process is scientifically proven. In order to make multitasking work in their favor, students need to abstain from mixing mentally taxing activities and take their coursework responsibly. Watching TV, while doing chores around the house, is both entertaining and beneficial for your brain. Texting your friends for half the time you should spend doing your homework wastes your time and stops you from actually learning anything.

Work Cited

CultureTutor.net 2014, “Multitasking Part 3: Good Multitasking: The Good News Is…It Isn’t All Bad”. CultureTutor.net. Web.

Daily Mail Reporter 2012, “Modern multi-tasking in the world of technology is actually good for your brain because it trains you to use more senses”. Daily Mail Online. Web.

Hill, Rebecca 2012, “Today’s Multitasking Teens”. SchoolFamily.com. Web.

Nierenberg, Cari 2012, “Multitasking Makes You Feel Good”. WebMD.com. Web.

Paul, Annie Murphy 2013, “How Does Multitasking Change the Way Kids Learn?” KQED News Online. Web.

Weimer, Maryellen 2012, “Students Think They Can Multitask. Here’s Proof They Can’t”. FacultyFocus.com. Web.

Introduction

Over the past decade, juvenile crimes have been on the rise in many regions around the world. These have been attributed to an increase in drug abuse, media influences and negative peer pressure among the youth. As such, laws have been enacted to deter the youth from getting into trouble. In addition, parents have been advised to set curfews in order to restrict their children’s activities during certain hours of the day and night.

Arguably, curfews help in the reduction of juvenile crime and victimization. However, opponents of this fact argue that curfews deny teenagers their civil rights.

This paper shall argue that curfews are beneficial to society in regard to the role they play in improving the lives of teenagers, and maintain social order. This shall be done by reviewing the arguments forwarded by the opponents and proponents of the impact curfews have on teenagers’ behaviors.

Impacts of Curfews on Teenagers

Logically, if there are indications that teenagers are getting into trouble between certain hours of the day or night, implementing curfews may help monitor their activities. Curfews provide a convenient way of deterring teenagers from juvenile crimes and victimization (Adams, 2003).

Aviram (2011), states that the implementation of a curfew decreases the likelihood of juveniles to commit violent and property crimes by 10% within the first year of its implementation. This percentage increases substantially in subsequent years (Aviram, 2011).

Similarly, Williams (2012), states that curfews enable parents to set boundaries, responsibilities and sleep patterns for their adolescent children. Through curfews, teenagers are able to know what is expected of them, their responsibilities and manage their time effectively.

In addition, Williams (2012), states that teenagers learn of the importance of rules, and the consequences of breaking those rules (for example, mistrust). These aspects help make the teenagers better citizens, while improving the bond between the parents and their teenage children.

Aviram (2011) argues that curfews facilitate the preservation of social order. At the teenage stage, individuals equate their freedom to the amount of time they spend with their friends. Similarly, at this stage, individuals are more likely to get into social problems due to peer pressure and reasoning inefficiencies.

As such, a teenager without restrictions is bound to do what he/she wants. In this regard, setting a curfew may help teenagers understand their responsibilities, and stay away from activities that may affect the level of trust and privilege given to them by their parents.

On the same note, Puzzanchera and Sickmund (2008) suggest that curfews help teenagers develop a more structured and disciplined routine. The ultimate goal of a curfew is to ensure that a teenager is at home within specified periods of time. Failure to do so leads to punishment or restriction of freedom.

In order to avoid such punishments, teenagers under a curfew ensure that they plan their time and activities carefully. However, despite these positive attributes associated with the implementation of curfews, there are people who believe that curfews do not achieve this aim.

According to Zimmerman (2011), curfews cannot prevent teens from getting pregnant, smoking, drinking, or participating in criminal activities. At this age, individuals are curious, and often find a way to do such things with or without a curfew in place. The behavior exhibited by a teenager depends on the relationship he/she has with the community.

For example, teenagers with positive moral and social values avoid conflict and trouble at all costs. On the other hand, those with negative influences in life often find themselves in trouble. Despite whether there is a curfew or not, delinquent teens always end up in trouble, while those with conservative personalities and trustworthy relationships avoid such situations.

On the same note, a study on juvenile crime in Detroit indicated that while such crimes had decreased by 6% during curfew hours in 1976, it had increased by 13% during the afternoon hours of the day (non-curfew hours). Ordinarily, most curfews are between 8 p.m. and midnight depending on the parent, state or school schedule.

However, nationwide statistics indicate that most juvenile crimes (80%) occur between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m., which is outside the curfew hours (Zimmerman, 2011). This is a clear indication that curfews do not keep teens out of trouble.

Zimmerman (2011), further states that the enacted curfew ordinances may be acceptable politically but they lack the ability to address the key issue, which is increased juvenile delinquency. The author suggests that the focus should be directed towards improving recreation centers, campaigning for youth empowerment and advocating for parental control.

Such initiatives are more likely to succeed in keeping teenagers out of trouble, as compared to setting curfews, which violate teenagers’ freedom of speech and movement, as well as their right to equal protection and due process among other civil rights (Zimmerman, 2011).

Discussion

Both sides provide compelling cases to support their arguments regarding the implementation of curfews as a means to keeping teenagers out of trouble. However, unless they are legally declared as adults, teenagers are their parents’ responsibility, and are bound by the rules set by the parents.

In as much as curfews may not seem effective in deterring juvenile delinquency, they have played a pivotal role in fostering responsibility, respect for boundaries and effective time management among the youth. They ensure that teenagers understand what is expected of them and the consequences of noncompliance to those expectations.

Similarly, parents have obligations to ensure the safety and health of their children. However, they cannot monitor and supervise their children’s activities every hour of the day. Setting curfews gives parents an opportunity to establish a trusting relationship with their children. As a result, parents are able to know where their children are, with whom and at what time to expect them back home.

Despite what the teenagers do with their free time, implementation of curfews lessens their likelihood of getting into trouble. This is because they are afraid of the repercussions associated with breaking the curfew. In the long-run, curfews play a significant role in deterring teenagers from getting into trouble. Simply put; the benefits of curfews as a deterrent mechanism far outweigh the costs.

Conclusion

Curfews make a significant impact on teenagers’ behaviors. They help parents to monitor their children’s activities and minimize the likelihood of teenagers getting into trouble. While some may argue that curfews are ineffective in the prevention of juvenile delinquency, there is supporting evidence that indicate otherwise.

Throughout this paper, the arguments for and against curfews have been outlined and support for each offered. At the end, it has been revealed that curfews help in the reduction of juvenile crime and victimization.

References

Adams, K. (2003). The Effectiveness of Juvenile Curfews at Crime Prevention. Annals 587: 136–59.

Aviram, H. (2011). Are teen curfews necessary? Web.

Puzzanchera, C., & Sickmund, M. (2008). Juvenile Court Statistics 2005. Pittsburgh, Pa.: National Center for Juvenile Justice.

Williams, L. (2012). What Can Happen When Teens Don’t Have a Curfew? Web.

Zimmerman, J. (2011). Curfews don’t keep kids out of trouble. Web.

Executive Summary

Sharp Teen Center is a start-up business organization that will provide teens in Dubai with an opportunity for recreation, where they will meet, integrate, and enjoy recreational facilities. The cultural diversity in the city provides an advantage for teens to learn from different cultural backgrounds, especially in terms of music, drama, arts, beauty contests, and other kinds of services. Sharp Teen Center will operate as a teen club, with new members having to meet some registration expenses and criteria set by the management. The facility will be operated as a club, with teen members having the opportunity to suggest the programs of their choice, and the management being the final decision-making organ.

Mission

1. To provide the teens in the greater Dubai area with an exciting, fun, entertaining, and educative facility, which will help them learn from cultural diversity and develop an appreciation of the culture in Dubai.
2. To develop a community development center that will focus on young people to allow them to integrate and build up a strong foundation for their career, which will be an added source of learning to the education they obtain from schools.

Objectives

1. Attracting 15% of the teens in Dubai by branding and marketing the ‘Sharp Teens Center and Club’ as a new product in the city.
2. Increase teenager enrolment by 12% by the end of the second year of operation
3. To gain a market share of 35% by the end of the third year of operation
4. To increase profitability by 20% per annum

Company Summary

Sharp Teens Center is a start-up business that will be operated as a partnership between Dick Marcus and Ali Hassan. The club will offer a series of teen activities to provide the community with an opportunity for entertainment, learning, and recreation. Besides, it will increase appreciation of cultural diversity, while also promoting cultural integration among the young people in the city. The services will contribute to the social, emotional, and physical development of the teens, while also discovering, promoting, and nurturing individual talents.

Dick Marcus is a psychologist and researcher in human psychology at the University of Abu Dhabi. He is an Australian citizen who relocated to the UAE to take up teaching at the university. He brings in advanced knowledge in teen psychology, which will promote the services to be provided at the center. Ali Hassan is a leading entrepreneur in Dubai other than being a child psychologist. He has been working as a psychiatrist for the last nine years, from which he obtained knowledge in the potentials of the Dubai tees and the social and psychological problems they face.

Potential customers

In Dubai, young people between the age of 11 and 19 make up at least 18% of the total population. The majority of these are foreigners or children born to immigrants, mainly from Asia, Europe, and the Far East. This means that cultural diversity is relatively high. Also, the majority are students in high schools and early years in the university, which means that they can find time to join the club during their holidays, weekends, and evenings after school. The company will therefore target this group as the potential customers.

Market opportunity

Dubai has a large population of the working class, with most people employed in the business and tourism sectors, which have been the major economic activities in the city over the last three decades. The city’s population is approximately 1.4 million people, with the majority of the adult population being workers and business people. This means that their potential to pay for recreation services for their children is relatively high, especially because parents are normally away at work, leaving the children in their homes or at school. The company will take the advantage of this situation to attract these parents and convince them to enroll their children at the club.

Secondly, the population of young people is rising with the rise in the general population in the city. The overall population growth rate is estimated at 3%. This indicates that the population of young people will rise significantly in the next few years. Also, it provides an opportunity for the Sharp Teens Center to expand its services and programs to accommodate more members and increase profitability.

Local context

Sharp Teens Center will base its services on the cultural aspects of the Dubai community. First, Islamic culture will be the main factor determining the kind of services to be provided and the target group. In this case, music, dance, arts, video, girls’ center, games, and sports services must conform to Islamic laws and regulations.

Secondly, the type of music, dance, and sports programs offered at the club will be based on the cultural diversity in the city. It will include the preferences of all the groups, including the Asians, westerners, Africans, and the local communities. Teens will be offered an opportunity to learn about different cultures, their music, arts, and sports and engage them in accepting cultural diversity. This is likely to ensure that the program of activities at the center does not rely on the culture of one group, but rather it represents the cultural diversity in Dubai.

Innovation

To improve its competitiveness, Sharp Teens Center will identify the state of an art business setting, with modern music, arts, sporting and game facilities, employees, and teachers to ensure that it beats off the potential competitors with innovativeness. Besides, the company will come with a program that will provide similar services to the physically and mentally challenged teens to ensure that they are not locked out of the overall opportunities presented by the club. Specifically, few organizations are providing recreational opportunities to these groups of teens, which means that our innovativeness will attract parents to enroll their physically and mentally challenged children to the club.

Financial issues

Dubai is the most expensive city in the UAE and the 20^th most expensive urban area in the world. This phenomenon means that the company must gather enough capital to provide the facilities in the club. Secondly, it will affect the pricing strategy because customers must meet the expenses and the company must achieve its level of profitability. Thirdly, there is a price competition with companies providing similar services. Although there is no company of this type, hotels, children centers and other organizations provide some services similar to some that will be provided at Sharp Teens Center. They offer competitive prices, which calls for a pilot study to determine the best pricing strategy to be employed at the club.