by Vicki

Created on: May 27, 2007

Adolescents & Poverty

The effects of poverty on adolescents can be not only devastating but last a lifetime for teens. More often than not, poverty is carried from generation to generation. Parents raising families in poverty are burdened by economic stress. The emotional environment in the home and between family members is often harsh and lacking in emotional support. Depression for the parents usually brings on marital conflict and the children may suffer emotionally and or physically. Abuse and neglect are present in the homes of many families living in poverty.

Youth living in poverty generally have lower grades than those in higher income classes and the rates for dropouts are highest within this income class. Their self-esteem is low. They suffer with depression and other mental health issues as well as having more health problems than the norm. Youth in poverty also have higher rates of juvenile delinquency and crime records. The statistics on drug and alcohol use is high as well. Teen pregnancy has also proved to be a major concern among our teens living in poverty. All of these factors model into the adolescent's adulthood and create yet another generation much the same.

At the current time, 17% of children and their families live in poverty. They usually live in bad neighborhoods and positive role models are either non-existent or out of reach for these youth. There are several ideas known for addressing these problems both within the family and in the community. Programs to aid families are often not sought out or desired by the parent(s), and unless intervention is mandated, they are not obligated to seek any help for their children or their families well being. This is why it is so important for the community to reach out to help these young people overcome what they are forced to live.

Since good majorities of parents living in poverty isolate themselves and avoid the more community related involvement, it robs their children of not only the will through self-esteem but knowledge of social interaction within the positive aspects of the community to make a difference.

Civic activism can guide these youth into an area of life with new meaning and self worth. The focus on social injustice, just as they live, can provide our teens with a purpose and place in society. Along with that, they gain a sense of self-awareness in discovering their own growing values and belief systems. Erikson argues, "Adolescent development comprises a new set of identification

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