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What kind of issues do you believe are of concern for young people? Why?
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Comment 1 19 Oct 2009, 7:49 PM
I am not a young person so these comments are age-centric! Young people need to know that they are OK. They need to be reassured that they do not have to join the edge groups because they feel that they are outsiders to the 'mainstream'. They should be able to see that being different is OK and being no different is also OK and that whatever is "mainstream' is broadly defined. Kids are cruel to each other so they need to have the armour that schools, parents and others provide. Sometimes those who should be helping kids adjust contribute nothing or contribute negatives. Therefore we as a community have to step up.
Comment 1.1 26 Oct 2009, 3:10 PM
I agree, young people may not know where they belong so I think it is important that the community including residents and services support them.
What are other issues, some may stem from Ross's point.
Comment 1.1.1 9 Nov 2009, 8:02 PM
One issue that I think is quite important is that students who dont fit into traditional schooling environments are not properly catered for. By this I mean, school institutions don't provide adequate alternative options for education which encourage students to complete their secondary education. There needs to be more encouragement of apprenticeship options as well as continual work experience which fosters individual goals and empowers students to actively determine their future.
By developing an appreciation of their education, students will be motivated to stay in school. This will minimise issues such as smoking, vandalism, binge drinking, depression, which stem from boredom and a lack of motivation.
Another issue is that there isn't an acceptance of "non-mainstream students". This happens because students who are different are isolated and bullied, and in the context of a repetitive school environment, they become branded as being "uncool". These students suffer daily and as a result, further issues stem from this.
This can only change when all students are taught to embrace differences rather than ridicule them.