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Adolescents are more likely than adults or children to engage in risky activities that may yield consequences for their health and safety (Ambrosia et al., 2018). Adolescents view these high intensity behaviors as "rewarding". Examples of risky activities include alcohol and substance abuse, sexual behavior, cheating, lying to adults, and extreme dieting or exercise.

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I will increase the amount of direct student services from 40% to 50% during the 2021-22 school year.
The goal will be measured by comparing logs for direct student services from the 2020-21 and 2021-22 academic years. Further, the goal is in alignment with ASCA standards recommending 80% of the counselors time being utilized to provide direct and indirect services to students (ASCA, 2019).

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Through participating in direct services, students will be able to demonstrate ASCA standard B SS 9:Demonstrate social maturity and behaviors appropriate to the situation and environment.

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To mitigate the issue of risky behavior, I will provide a range of grade appropriate direct services to the students of the high school. Services will include classroom lessons, individual and group sessions, and "Counselor Corner".

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Ambrosia, M., Eckstrand, K. L., Morgan, J. K., Allen, N. B., Jones, N. P., Sheeber, L., Silk, J. S., & Forbes, E. E. (2018). Temptations of friends: adolescents’ neural and behavioral responses to best friends predict risky behavior. Social Cognitive & Affective Neuroscience, 13(5), 483–491. https://doi-org.ezp.waldenulibrary.org/10.1093/scan/nsy028

American School Counselor Association (2019). ASCA National Model: A framework for school counseling programs (4th ed.). Alexandria, VA: Author.

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Think of the lyrics of this song as a mantra at resisting temptation.

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Song · 4:00 · 1998 · Available with an Apple Music subscription. Try it free.

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When thinking of ways to support our village of students, we know that teamwork makes the dream work! Teachers, parents, and other community leaders act as support staff to increase the effectiveness of any counseling program. The linked article is a great resource for parents and teachers. As always, I am happy to provide more resources and support.

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Teens are overwhelmed daily by external pressure. The media portrays the ideal image of perfection; their friends tell them how to act; their teachers stress the importance of good grades. Everyone around them wants them to act, dress and look a certain way. There are many temptations each and every day, some positive, some negative and some much more dangerous than others. As a parent, there is a lot you can do to help your son or daughter deal with teen temptations.

Communication is key

First, start by having an honest, open conversation with your child about the struggles they are facing. Some typical teen temptations to ask about include:

Alcohol

Substance use

Sex

Extreme dieting or excessive exercising

Lying to their parents

Cheating on schoolwork

Remember to ask open-ended questions that won't result in a "yes," "no," or shrug and walk away. Talk to them about the consequences of high-risk behaviors and teach them ways to not only overcome teen temptations, but also avoid them in the first place.

Avoid situations

Though it seems rudimentary, if you know there is going to be alcohol at a party your child wants to go to or you know your daughter's boyfriend is home alone, just say no. Even if it means your teen will be outraged, it will only be temporary. Offer other options your child might enjoy, such as inviting their friends to have a sleepover or going to watch a movie that just came out.

Choosing the right friends

Despite your desire to pick your teen's friends, it doesn't usually work out that well. Banning a child from hanging out with a certain person typically just fuels their desire to be friends. Instead of sharing your concern right away, ask your teen about the friendship. What do they like about that person? What interests do they have in common?

"Encourage your child to have a wide variety of friends. If they have buddies from dancing class and Scouts, as well as school, they will be exposed to many children with different ideas and interests." - Rachel Lewis, The National

Confidence and teen temptations

Most teens give in to pressure from peers and the media out of guilt and the need to fit in. Building your child's confidence can ensure he or she not only resists teen temptations, but also makes healthy, positive choices in most circumstances.

If you are concerned about the choices your teen is making or know your teen is struggling with peer pressure, call us today at 800-975-7303.

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Dealing With Teen Temptations Before They Become Problems - Trails Carolina

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Teens are overwhelmed daily by external pressure. The media portrays the ideal image of perfection; their friends tell them how to act; their teachers stress the importance of good grades. Everyone around them wants them to act, dress and look a certain way.