Societal Influences

Mass media, community norms, and adult role models also influence adolescent risk-taking behaviors. Teens are constantly bombarded with emotionally arousing, and often dangerous messages through multi-media -- unprotected sex, substance abuse, and alcohol use. Even neighborhoods and communities provide teens with opportunities to engage in risky behaviors, depending on local ordinances such as ages to purchase cigarettes, access to and acceptability of guns, and ability to drive cars.¹ Even adults have trouble resisting some unhealthy behaviors- how much harder it must be for teens whose judgment and decision making skills are still being developed!

As program staff serving adolescents, you can be a source of support and guidance, and work with other community resources to establish a safer, healthier, more teen friendly environment.

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