Research The Range Of Contemporary Issues Teenagers F 585646
Research The Range Of Contemporary Issues Teenagers Face Today In A 5
Research the range of contemporary issues teenagers face today. In a 500-word paper, choose one issue (besides teen pregnancy) and discuss its effect on adolescent behavior and overall well-being. Include the following in your submission: Describe the contemporary issue and explain what external stressors are associated with this issue. Outline assessment strategies to screen for this issue and external stressors during an assessment for an adolescent patient. Describe what additional assessment questions you would need to ask and define the ethical parameters regarding what you can and cannot share with the parent or guardian. Discuss support options for adolescents encountering external stressors. Include specific support options for the contemporary issue you presented. Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. An abstract is not required. This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
Paper For Above instruction
Adolescence is a critical developmental period characterized by rapid physical, emotional, and social changes. Among the numerous contemporary issues faced by teenagers today, cyberbullying has emerged as a significant concern impacting adolescent behavior and well-being. This paper explores the nature of cyberbullying, its associated external stressors, assessment strategies, ethical considerations, and available support options for affected adolescents.
Understanding Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying refers to the use of electronic communication platforms, such as social media, messaging apps, and online forums, to harass, threaten, or humiliate others. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying has a pervasive nature due to its accessibility at any time and the potential for anonymity. Studies indicate that cyberbullying affects approximately 20-40% of adolescents (Kowalski, Giumetti, Schroeder, & Lattanner, 2014). The psychological impact includes anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and in extreme cases, suicidal ideation (Nixon, 2014).
External Stressors Associated with Cyberbullying
External stressors linked to cyberbullying include peer pressure, social rejection, fear of exposure, and loss of privacy. Adolescents socialized predominantly online may experience heightened vulnerability due to the persistence of digital evidence and the impossibility of ‘escaping’ the harassment. Additionally, family issues, academic stress, and societal influences can exacerbate the emotional toll taken by cyberbullying incidents (Kowalski et al., 2014).
Assessment Strategies and External Stressors Screening
Screening for cyberbullying involves comprehensive assessments that include direct questions about online behaviors, experiences of harassment, and emotional well-being. Clinicians should utilize validated tools like the Cyberbullying Self-Report Scale (Collier & McLaughlin, 2018). During assessment, questions should explore frequency and type of online interactions, perceived safety online, and emotional responses. External stressors must also be evaluated, including family relationships, peer dynamics, and academic pressures, as these factors influence the adolescent’s vulnerability and resilience.
Additional Assessment Questions and Ethical Parameters
Additional questions should delve into the duration and severity of cyberbullying experiences, coping mechanisms, and access to support systems. Ethical considerations involve respecting confidentiality while balancing the duty to protect the adolescent from harm (American Psychological Association, 2017). With minors, clinicians must clarify what information can be shared with parents or guardians, especially if disclosing details might escalate harm or violate the adolescent’s privacy rights. Pediatric assent and parental consent should be navigated carefully, respecting the adolescent’s developmental capacity to participate in decision-making (Reamer, 2018).
Support Options for Adolescents Facing Cyberbullying
Support strategies include psychological counseling to address emotional distress, peer support groups, and school-based interventions. Digital literacy programs can empower adolescents to recognize and respond to cyberbullying effectively. Parents should be instructed on monitoring online activity ethically and supporting open communication. Schools can implement anti-cyberbullying policies, provide counseling services, and promote a positive school climate (Kowalski et al., 2014). In severe cases, intervention by mental health professionals may be necessary to manage suicidal ideation or other severe psychological responses.
Conclusion
Cyberbullying remains a pervasive and harmful issue affecting adolescents' mental health and overall well-being. Proper assessment, ethical considerations, and comprehensive support systems are essential in mitigating its impact. Ensuring adolescents receive appropriate psychological support and fostering a safe environment both online and offline can help build resilience and promote healthy development during this vulnerable stage of life.
References
- American Psychological Association. (2017). Ethical principles of psychologists and code of conduct. APA Publications.
- Collier, K., & McLaughlin, T. F. (2018). The cyberbullying self-report scale: Development and validation. Journal of Adolescent Health, 62(4), 413-418.
- Kowalski, R. M., Giumetti, G. W., Schroeder, A. N., & Lattanner, M. R. (2014). Bullying in the digital age: A critical review and meta-analysis of cyberbullying research. Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, 19(3), 335-354.
- Nixon, C. L. (2014). Current perspectives: The impact of cyberbullying on adolescent mental health. Psychology, Health & Medicine, 19(4), 473-480.
- Reamer, F. G. (2018). Ethical challenges for social workers in the era of digital social work. Social Work, 63(1), 7-15.