NCJ Number
199062
Date Published
1996
Length
32 pages
Annotation
This document presents key community issues involving youth for study circles with adults and young people.
Abstract
Some problems and trends affecting teens in the United States today are changing family patterns, poverty, violence, racial conflict, dating violence, substance abuse, lack of economic opportunity, and teen pregnancy. Session one of the study circle allows for sharing thoughts about being young and what the community is like for young people. Session two takes a look at the community from the point of view of young people. Discussion centers on what improvements could make the community a better place for young people. Session three presents discussion on four issues: dealing with racial and ethnic tensions, reducing violence and making community a safer place, promoting healthy and responsible dating relationships, and dealing with substance abuse. The purpose of session four is to talk about the next steps to take to make a difference on youth issues in the community. Ideas for individual action include being a leader in a youth program and joining a community organization. Ideas for community action include sponsoring a youth support group, organizing a sports tournament, or developing a mentoring program. Some of the ground rules for study circles are to listen carefully to others, be open-minded, value one another’s experiences, and not monopolize the conversation.