Working With Adolescents Essay

Working with Adolescents As a former high school English teacher, I have a strong affinity for working with adolescents. I made a personal decision to teach at an alternative school, as opposed to a public high school, for various reasons. Primary to this decision, however, was the ability to interact and impact disenfranchised youth, who experienced a wide range of life experiences, from mental health diagnoses, substance abuse, or violence, i.e. gang violence. Corey, Corey, and Corey (2010) noted the importance of not only social relationships and independence during this period of development, but also the importance of personal successes in relation to both individuality and universality. In combination with my own personal life experience and professional area of interest, substance abuse and associated crime and be a mitigating factor in all the above-mentioned …show more content…
It depicted individuals smoking marijuana and intentionally jumping out of windows, or becoming violent due to the effects of marijuana. None of this made sense, and while not as blatantly exaggerated, it mirrored much of the drug abuse prevention being done concurrently during my high school years. The point of this example, and my teaching years have only further cemented this personal belief, is that when adolescents don’t trust of believe you, it is extremely difficult to get them back. Corey, Corey, and Corey (2010) highlighted the importance for group leaders to “avoid pretense” and “respect young people,” (p. 326). Using ridiculous examples, based on half-truths, are only going to cause a group leader to lose credibility, interest, and any potential for change and growth. The majority of adolescents this age will surprise adults with their knowledge on this subject matter, and it should be expected that any discrepancies will be met with a full-scale, knowledgeable, and insightful