Our Teens (Pre-Adults)
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We are in crisis mode in regards to our teenagers today.
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With the pressures of school and the world at large with all its sub-issues, our society can be a dangerous place for anyone coming into adulthood. Teen pregnancy and STDs have always been among us but now it is with us at an alarming rate. Even with education and exposure to prevention many of our youth still cannot escape the temptation and/or the dynamic that keeps this behavior alive. Believe this or not, this circumstance is not just a lower income or ghetto situation anymore. It is alive and well in Suburbia too.
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We must also address our young men specifically. Again it is not just our brothers and minority youth that fall into the behavioral problem. The gang mentality and the visual presentation in which they carry themselves, the long white t-shirts and sagging jeans that hang well below their backsides. Now, don’t misunderstand me, we have all had our rebellious periods growing up and some even attach this to a particular culture. However, sloppiness and undignified behavior meaning unprovoked cursing and broken English does not sit well with anyone.
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The Queen’s English for the most part is still the language of the marketplace. At some point, we must all find ourselves in some form of a market place if we plan to succeed financially in this society. Ultimately a sense of pride and self-consciousness must be invested into the minds of our youth early on.
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The misrepresentation of our youth--both male and female can be seen daily in videos and heard in music, again, words and language influencing thought and behavior. We cannot all be “thugs” and the “N” word and our sisters cannot all be “B”s and “Hoes”. That very impression has a lasting effect wither it is conscious or subconscious.
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Through my discussions with a number of young ladies and girls, outside of the wanting to be loved; which is a serious need, many of them want unconditional “love” which they believe can be granted by having a child. Think about that for a moment. That their solution for a lack of attention or low self esteem and the need to be needed. We must fix and erase this mentality in our youth. By teaching love and then practice it in our daily lives, with both our male and female children.
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There will always be issues and conflict when addressing our teens. They are in an awkward place, between childhood and adulthood. We as adults must be diligent and consistent. Discipline is not a bad word. It does not have to be physical but it should bring about structure. Yes, we want our children to be safe and educated. School, after high school is not for everyone but ambition and goals should be stressed and fortified. We must give our teens alternatives to the negativity that constantly surrounds them. Education and activities that stimulates the mind and body and prepares them on all levels for the rest of their lives. Lastly, although we want them to grow up and be productive members of society, we must keep in mind that during the growth stage, they are still children and we must gage their mental growth and development and be sure they are ready for the new processes and privileges that come with being adults.
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Learn to Learn, Learn to Live, Learn to Love, Learn to Respect...RAHMAN S.
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