Academics aren't always the most important thing on our minds
We know many of you, adults, that is, already know this. But, there are some grown ups who maybe don't really understand what we're up against when we're at school... and, when you think about it, we're still just kids trying to figure it all out. Sometimes we "get it right" and other times we don't.
This page of the website is especially meant for you, grown ups. An authentic perspective from a youth on some things about school and how it makes us feel, and that you might not be aware of. If this sparks more curiousity about what's going on with your child then use this as a conversation piece with your kid.
The following is from the voice of: Jose Rivera, SWAT Youth Council.
Bullying as it relates to...
Gang Violence
The cycles of bullying are all various but in the end they are all unwanted situations. Bullying is a result of many circumstances so the main thing will be to look into what's causing it and what is going on with your kid.
Gang violence is a situation that many youth face day-to-day and it isn't just in the city.
Basically, from where a kid lives to where they go to school; to where they chill, gang activity can be in any of those places. The people a young person surrounds themselves with, the things they wear, the way they act (maybe in order to fit in with gang members), and/or the music they may listen to can be, and often are, influenced by gang members.
Peer Pressure
Bullying and violence can be the result of peer pressure. Peer pressure can take place in many different situations such as a gang member might approach an individual to pressure them into saying things or go along with something even though they don't want to. Another example could be where a gang member threatens another member to do something for the group and if that person doesn't do it then the gang will hurt that person. A lot of times, gang members do things they know are wrong to avoid being "punished" by the rest of the gang or to appear "cool."
Bullying Resources
for more information on bullying check out these website, which are good for both parents and kids.
List of Anti-bullying Websites
School and Relationships
The reason relationships are a school issue is because when you are in a relationship and you are in school you are always worried about the person you care about. And, even though some grown-ups find it hard to believe, we take our relationships seriously, especially when we are in love.
We are preoccupied about our girl/boyfriend - we're thinking, are they okay? What are they doing and who are they with? Are they in class? And when you are worrying about girls, it’s a whole other level.
You’re worried about what they think about your appearance. You begin to wonder, do you have the right clothes on? Do you have enough money in your pocket? And do you have jewelry that the girls would like? It's constant worry and wondering.
Resources About Teen Relationships
Understanding Teen Relationships: You Deserve a Healthy Relationship
Teen Advice About Relationships
Preventing Teen Dating Violence
About Adolescent Romantic Relationships
