NEWS REPORT AND ARTICLE ABOUT ADOLESCENTS

SOURCE - TIMES OF INDIA

MINDSET OF YOUTH DURING ADOLESCENCE
The mindset of youth during adolescence is multifaceted and influenced by
various factors including biological changes, cognitive development, social
interactions, and cultural contexts. Here are some common aspects of the
adolescent mindset:

1. Peer Relationships
Peers play a significant role in adolescents' lives, influencing their attitudes,
behaviors, and social norms. Adolescents often seek acceptance, belonging,
and validation from their peers, which can impact their self-esteem and
decision-making.

2. Emotional Intensity
Adolescents experience a wide range of emotions more intensely than other age
groups due to hormonal changes and brain development. They may struggle
with mood swings, heightened sensitivity, and difficulties regulating their
emotions.

3. Risk taking behavior

Adolescents are more prone to engaging in risky behaviors such as substance
use, reckless driving, and unprotected sex. This propensity for risk-taking is
partly attributed to the ongoing development of the brain's prefrontal cortex,
which governs decision-making and impulse control.

4. Academic and Future Concerns

Adolescents often experience stress and pressure related to academic
performance, college or career aspirations, and the transition to adulthood. They
may feel overwhelmed by the expectations placed on them by parents, teachers,
and society.

5. Social Media Influence:

The rise of social media has a profound impact on adolescents' lives, shaping
their self-image, relationships, and social interactions. Adolescents may
experience anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy as they compare
themselves to others on social media platforms.

Peer Pressure: Some True Stories

 AADI (aged 16) says:
“I smoked my first cigarette when I was 11. I didn’t want to but all my
friends were smoking and I didn’t want to be out of the group. Once I’d
started I couldn’t stop. I was addicted… I wish I hadn’t started. I knew it was
wrong and I didn’t want to.”

Case of Cyberbullying and Mental Health:

ANUSHKA is a 15-year-old adolescent who loves spending time on social
media. However, she starts receiving hurtful messages and comments from
anonymous users, criticizing her appearance and spreading rumors about her.
Anushka feels devastated and anxious, fearing the judgment of her peers and
losing her online friends. Despite blocking the users and reporting the
cyberbullying, the harassment continues, leading Anushka to experience
depression and low self-esteem. She becomes withdrawn and avoids social
interactions, impacting her mental health and well-being.

Adolescent with Eating Disorder

Patient: MAHESH, a 15-year-old
Presenting Problem: Mahesh presents with symptoms of an eating disorder,
including restrictive eating habits, excessive exercise, and preoccupation
with body weight and shape. They report feeling fatigued, dizzy, and cold all
the time.

Adolescent with Acne

Patient: ZOYA, a 14-year-old girl
Presenting Problem: Zoya presents with severe acne on her face, chest, and
back, causing her distress and affecting her self-esteem. She reports
experiencing embarrassment and social withdrawal due to her skin condition.