"Re-examining the Role of Role Models in Today's Society"

To begin I want to start by saying that a "role" model is exactly what it sounds like. These are people who play a "role" in someone's life. Whether it be a positive or negative role depends on the person and the role that they play. An example of a good role model would be someone who works hard to make their community a better place. An example of a bad role model would be someone who leads a negative lifestyle and lowers community standards.

One way to examine the role of a role model is via the television. The television is like a window into the life of these role models. It also gives the role model a certain amount of power due to the fact that their lifestyle is subconsciously mimicked by the younger generation. This is due to the fact that a younger person is more than likely trying to learn more about them self as an individual.
An example of a positive, "televised" role model is Al Gore. One of his roles as a role model is to raise the world's awareness about global warming. Thus, molding the minds of tomorrow into a more environmentally conscious community.
An example of a negative, "televised" role model is Young Jeezy. He is a rapper who in his music, promotes; drug use, violence, gangs, and also gives instructions on how to make "crack" cocaine. Not saying that the music isn't good, but that is precisely why young people look at him as a role model.

No matter how you examine the role of a role model, one thing is certain. They will be followed by youth. All I can say is that we, as adults, must re-examine ourselves as role models and decide on whether or not we play a positive role in the lives of the young people around us. Once we have re-examined our own roles, we can then create positive guidelines to follow for our lifestyle. Which makes us better role models for young people.

Learn more about this author, Matt Wade.
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