Four Critical Issues Facing Teens Today
by Jessica Gilstrap, LMHC Lying They are not being honest and straightforward with what is really going on. (i.e. moral behavior) May be lying about where they go and whom they are with. Frequently lie about their true thoughts and feelings that may not “line up” with what they have been taught. (i.e. church kids telling us what we “want” to hear). Entitlement Children wanting and expecting more and more “stuff”. They have an incessant need/desire to keep up with their peer groups. They expect it, not matter what the cost. Parents and or teachers may even see “acting out” (i.e. attitudes, rebellion, anger) when they don’t get what they think they deserve. Nothing ever seems to be enough… Alcohol/Drugs Alcohol is the leading cause of death among teenagers. It contributes substantially to adolescent motor vehicle crashes, other traumatic injuries, suicide, date rape, and family and school problems. LSD or acid still ranks high on the list of teenage drug use. This drug is so dangerous be