Western Influence

As the world becomes more globalize, our youth have growing access to a wide variety of information. Most of this information, when used correctly can have a positive influence on a youth’s education, career development and personal growth. However, it is also true that access to Western media can encourage youth to become more experimental. It is important to recognize the changes that have occurred in the attitudes and exposure of today’s youth in order to be sensitize to these changes with education the youth about risky behaviors and habits. It can be helpful to remind your students that the lifestyles that they read about in magazines or see on Western movies are not realistic or healthy examples to follow. Frank and open discussions with youth about the risks that arise from being experimental sexually or with drugs and alcohol can help them feel less confused and more confident to make healthy choices. This sort of discussion will encourage youth to be discerning in their exposure to Western media and will help them to be aware of both the pros and the cons that come with the modern information age.