Teen Perspective
These articles about teen issues were written by student journalists and appeared in the Chronicle, the newspaper of Barron Collier High School, Naples, Florida.
Megan T.
Just what makes a teen happy? Think for a second about what makes YOU happy. Is it listening to music? What about getting good grades? Or is it consoling a friend in their time of need?
The Chronicle, Barron Collier High School's newspaper, tallied up the answers of 85 students, ranging from freshman to seniors, and came up with the following:
Of these 10 choices:
- Finishing in well-cooked meal
- Getting a good grade
- Visiting a loved one
- Listening to music
- Consoling a friend
- Receiving a smile
- Someone telling you, good job
- Helping someone in need
- Playing sports
- Doing art
The top 5 are:
- Listening to music
- Getting good grades
- Receiving a smile
- Being told, good job
- Playing sports
These results bring up interesting points. First, that statistically, music indeed does make the world go round.
Second, the younger the students were, the happier getting good grades made them. Possibly, the excitement of achieving good grades loses its luster as it becomes more commonplace.
Maybe the most intriguing point is how high being approved of ranks on the list. This shows that teens, although that tough exterior may fool many, seek just as much, if not more approval, as any other group.
Not only will this information benefit teens, when they ask themselves, What really makes me happy? but it will also be a valuable resource for teachers.
According to this chart, if music were played on occasion, positive reinforcement given regularly and smiles were exchanged more often, the classroom would be a more welcoming place. The point is, in everyday life, you can look at this, and realize if YOU want it, then chances are, someone else does too.
Inquiries? Please contact Dr. Jami Jones