High Schoolers : Ages 14-17
During the high school years, your students continue to make changes toward becoming adults, both physically and emotionally. Some key elements of teen development are:
- Abstract Thinking - Teens are better able to understand situations from different points of view. They know that not everything is a right or wrong answer, and that people have different motivations behind the choices they make.
- Identity - Teens test out different parts of their identities to figure out who they are and who they want to be. They may try out styles of dressing, types of music, and different groups of friends to find their place.
- Risky Behaviors - Finding an identity includes testing limits. Teens may try out risky behaviors such as experiment with smoking, drinking, drugs or sexual behavior.
So how does media fit into these needs of high schoolers?
Television and Movies
While television is still a part of life during the teen years, it does not play as big a role as in the younger years. For some teens it is because they are so busy with extracurricular activities that they do not have time to watch as much TV. For others, the time they previously spent with television turns into time they spend with music or the internet instead.
Music
The Kaiser Family Foundation reports that teens spend an average of 2 and a half hours each day listening to music. Between Mp3 players, stereos in their rooms and cars, and the good old radio, teens surround themselves with music at this stage of life.
Computers and the Internet
Teens are likely to use computers for social reasons. They log on to AOL instant messenger to talk to their friends. They post a profile on MySpace. They write blogs to keep an online journal of their lives. They post photos to Flickr. These technologies have a lot of benefits, like helping teens work out their identities and connect with peers. However, there are also risks of using the internet, such as privacy concerns and connecting with strangers.
Advertising
Teens fully understand that the purpose of ads is to get people to buy things. They are often wise to the advertising industry and do not want to be "tricked" by them. They respond well to media literacy because they feel empowered by knowing the "behind-the-scenes" aspects of advertising.
Video Games
Teens often enjoy playing video games online or using a video game system hooked up to a TV. Teenagers can play these games for hours on end, but they need to find a balance to make sure that homework, sleep, physical activity, and family time are part of their lives.
Another concern about video games is that they are often violent. They show an unrealistic view of the world and teach that aggression is an acceptable way to solve problems.
Return to Teachers' Homepage
CMCH resources for parents and teachers are made possible
by a grant from the American Legion Child Welfare Foundation.
