Y+Risk+it?

Name: Gabrielle Sankey Student Number: 8330697 Tutor: Katie Page

// Artefact //

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The video presented above, shows the opening song and accompanying video to the award winning and very popular British television show, //Skins//. //Skins// explores the lives of 8 young teenagers attending high-school and living in Bristol, England. Whilst the show has been scrutinised for its controversial plots, thousands of teenagers all over the world continue to watch and share in the journey of the young adolescents. //Skins// discusses and explores issues such as dysfunctional families and relationships, mental illnesses such as eating disorders, sexuality, substance abuse and death. This video successfully identifies and gives insight into the stereotypical 21st century, Generation Y adolescents and the attributes they possess and have since become accepted within society as a norm. **//Pandora: I'm definitely going to have surf and turf// //a////sap. Mum says boys only want one thing, so my plan is to give it to them lots of times, get good at it...be really popular...”//** // Public Health Issue // Today’s society predominately consists of younger people, with Generation Y making up one-fifth of the Australian population (Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), 2006). There is an increasing concern for the health and wellbeing of Generation Y in regards to the abundance of risk-taking behaviours occurring such as the prevalence of alcohol and drugs and practising of unsafe sex. This public health issue is particularly concerning as over time these actions and behaviours have become a societal norm, somewhat accepted and integrated into Australian culture.

//__ Who is Generation Y? __// It is hard to definitely state the range of years for each generation, which has caused much debate about the starting and cut-off dates. The dates can often differ by a few years, as researchers argue there is little difference from December 31st of one year and January 1st of the next. Despite this, Generation Y most commonly is known as those people born between 1980 and 1994 (McCrindle, 2006).

// Literature Review // Generation Y has been described as the most educated and supported generation in history, among other characteristics, so why are so many young adolescents continuing to jeopardise their health despite increased awareness and education? (The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), 2008).  Alcohol has been embedded in Australian culture and the research on consumption of alcohol in adolescents is quite alarming. The results of a survey conducted on over 20,000 students aged between 12 and 17, revealed that 86% of students had tried alcohol by the age of 14 and by the age of 17, 70% of the students had consumed alcohol in the month previous to the survey being conducted (Department of Health and Ageing, 2005). Perhaps even more concerning, is the excess in which young adolescents are drinking. According to the National Drug Strategy Household Survey (2001), 94% of males and 78% of females aged 14-19 are binge drinking; drinking more than the recommended four drinks in one sitting and/or ‘drinking to get drunk’. This statistic justifies concern for the health and wellbeing of Generation Y as it has been proven that drinking more than four drinks in one session significantly increases the risk of injury and death. In addition, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (2004/05) states that persons are more likely to engage in risky behaviours such as driving, swimming, unwanted or unsafe sex when intoxicated. The Australian Government’s Department of Veterans’ Affairs (2009) revealed that alcohol is associated with 44% of fire injuries, 34% of falls and drowning, 30% of car accidents, 47% of assaults, 34% of homicides, 32% of suicides. It is clear, that alcohol has indeed become accepted as a societal norm. Australian culture, it appears can at times even promote alcohol consumption with sayings like “A hard-earned thirst needs a big, cold beer; and the best cold beer is VB” consistently being promoted in the media. The health consequences associated with excessive consumption of alcohol are a great concern for the health of Generation Y.    As mentioned above, alcohol can alter people’s decision making skills and result in them performing other risky behaviours. Despite a number of awareness education programs on the consequences of unprotected sexual intercourse, such as STD’s and pregnancy, a number of Generation Y adolescents are not taking the appropriate precautions. In a survey on high school students, 37% revealed in their last sexual encounter they did not use a condom (Kaiser, 2006). As a result of this, teenage mother’s account for 4.8% of all births in Australia (Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, 2010). Having children at such a young age not only disadvantages the child but also the mother too. Mothering a child during adolescent increases the risk of poverty, substance abuse, social exclusion and the child is more likely to group up without a father and follow the same path as their mother (Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, 2010). As evident above, it is clear there are a number of sociological and health disadvantages associated with unsafe sex.  The consumption and use of illicit drugs in adolescents is a seemingly less prevalent social issue within Australia, however this is not the case. The 2007 National Drug Strategy Household Survey, discovered that adolescents aged 14-19 years were more likely to have ever tried cannabis (25.5%) compared to tobacco (16.2%). But why is this? Societies view on smoking tobacco has differed over time; smoking used to be a sign of sophistication and wealth whereas now it is mostly regarded as deadly and an unnecessary expense. So why are young adolescents choosing to ignore the health warnings scattered all over the television, buses and the packet’s themselves? Why are they turning to illicit drugs, with equally, in most cases more, unpleasant health consequences? Research has shown the leading contributor to smoking and illicit drug use was curiosity, pressure to conform and pressure from peers (Commonwealth of Australia, 2007). In the period from 2004 to 2006, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (2004-06) confirmed that 78 young people died as a result of the use of illicit drugs. These staggering statistics are proof that action needs to be taken in order to preserve the life and health status of Generation Y.   <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">Australian’s have evidently conducted significant research on the risky-behaviours of adolescents; Generation Y. However, there are several limitations to research on these topics and these must be considered when assessing the validity of the data. Due to the nature of the topics, the vast majority of the research conducted was done by the utilisation of self-administered surveys. Thus, it cannot be assumed the participants have been honest, taken the survey seriously and correctly estimated their consumption levels. These limitations reduce the accuracy of the studies and it can therefore be inferred it is difficult to obtain accurate data on such topics. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">Regardless of the possible limitations, it is apparent that further action from the government and support from the social media needs to be taken. As presented above, there is a number of health consequences associated with such risky behaviours, with death being a possibility. A multifaceted approach aiming at decreasing the prevalence of these issues will need to be taken to ensure Generation Y lives a happy, healthy and successful life. <span style="display: block; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; text-align: center;">// Social and Cultural Analysis // <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">Whilst the research above is pertinent in discovering what the biggest health concern for Generation Y is, it is the social and cultural background that helps one to understand why the problem is present. This is turn, can potentially aid in rectifying and potentially resolve the issue. As discussed previously, these risk taking behaviours can often be attributed to Australian traditions, customs and trends and the pressure to conform to societal norms. <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">There are a number of factors that impact an individual’s behaviours and influence ones decision making. Primarily, it is the conditions and experiences that one’s generation has lived through that have enabled researchers to differentiate between generations. The current political and economic status at the time, in combination with the advancement of technology and education standards has impacted generations significantly. As well as this, the social happenings including music and fashion trends, can also impact a generations views and actions. For example, generation X listened to INXS, Nirvana and Madonna whilst generation Y listened to the likes of Eminem and Britney Spears. Furthermore, the “trendy” thing for generation X was rollerblades and torn jeans whilst generation Y admired body piercings and metro sexual dress sense (White, 2006). <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">Undoubtedly the society Generation Y have become accultured to has resulted in adolescents feeling under pressure to drink or act in certain ways in order to be accepted. Adolescents of Generation Y are constantly bombarded with images and situations focused around drinking such as celebrations, sporting matches, parties and eventually the night club scene. This indefinitely contributes as a ‘silent pressure’ to drink so that they do not feel ostracised or ‘boring’. <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">In addition, studies have shown that children and young adolescents are susceptible to ‘copying’ or ‘following in the footsteps’ of their parents or guardians. If one parent is a heavy drinker, the child’s chance of becoming a heavy drinker increases by threefold (Drug Rehab Treatment, 2009). It is due to the results of such studies, which lead to the government funding campaigns such as “Just Say No” which encourages parents not to buy alcohol for minors. This initiative was taken when a survey showed that one third of adolescents get their parents to buy them alcohol (AMA, 2005). The //‘Don’t turn a night into a nightmare’// campaign (2010) encourages parents to stress the importance of never getting into a car when intoxicated or with an intoxicated driver, educate them on the dangers of drink spiking and help their child to build confidence so that they can act in an informed, educated way if such scenarios do occur. It can be concluded that the behaviours of one’s parent, can dramatically impact and influence their decisions and behaviours. <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">It is evident that the social and cultural background of an individual or society, significantly influence whether or not one engages in risky behaviours such as substance abuse and unsafe sex. Due to the number of health consequences associated with such risky behaviours, this public health issue cannot be ignored and must be addressed. It is crucial that the government, social media and general public support education and awareness programs particularly to be implemented in primary schools to aid in prevention and in the social media, as this has proven to be very influential on Generation Y. It is hoped that with continual advancements in education and awareness, Australia as a society will be able to combat this vast social health issue and Generation Y will be deterred from such risky behaviours and in turn develop an improved health status.

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; text-align: center;">// Analysis of the Artefact & Learning Reflection // <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">The chosen artefact depicting the //Skins// opening song and video illustrates a number of risk-taking behaviours that Generation Y in particular is engaging in. The popularity of the show is synonymous with Australia’s culture which accepts and somewhat encourages these behaviours. It is clear that young adolescents of today feel, to an extent, the need to conform and participate in such behaviours to feel accepted and ‘normal’. Furthermore, in combination with the influential Australian culture and traditions, it is demonstrated in the research above that the social, economic and environmental background of a person has a significant impact on their decision making to participate. Despite the statistics and varied opinions of Generation Y, it is important to realise we must not stereotype and categorise people simply because of when they were born. Everybody has individual traits, beliefs and values which impact accordingly on their actions. As a member of Generation Y I am very much aware of the pressures to conform and have witnessed the effects and consequences of risky behaviours. Whilst, I believe //Skins// is slightly exaggerated, the issues they discuss are very much real and present in today’s society. <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">Throughout the course of this year, I have been challenged to question and understand, in greater depth, various social issues. This particular assessment, has allowed me to see different perspectives, insights and opinions and analyse each critically. I have come to see how society, culture and events can have a significant impact on a person’s upbringing and hence I can understand and empathise with differing generational characteristics. Through the research and analysis undertaken, it is clear a multifaceted approach needs to be taken in order to help improve the health status of generation Y and remove the stigma that excessive drinking and other behaviours is correlated with Australian culture. //<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 27px;">Learning Engagement & Reflection // **//<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Imogen Bradley- //** **//<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">http://healthculturesociety.wikispaces.com/How+Healthy+is+Generation+Y%3F+Is+Consumerism+and+Individualistic+Ideals+Affecting+the+Mental+Health+Profile+of+this+Generation%3F //** <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">The topic you have discussed has been insightful and addressed the social and cultural aspects of mental health very thoroughly. I found your artefact interesting and successful in reiterating the fact this is a concerning issue for many, particularly parents. It was pleasing to see that the parents attending this seminar found this multi-faceted approach to be very informative, entertaining and interesting. With such positive feedback, perhaps this initiative should be dispersed more widely and advertised in the social media so that people become aware of the great work Dr. Manocha and leading health professionals have been doing in developing these seminars. The statistics you outlined were shocking and brought to my attention just how prevalent this health issue is within our society. As stated in your learning reflection, marginalisation of persons suffering mental illness needs to cease and initiatives such as the seminars above should be implemented to help combat this public health issue. Well done Imogen! **//<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Simone Tozer- //** **//<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">http://healthculturesociety.wikispaces.com/Y+Gets+Wrapped+up+by+the+Mouse //** <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">The topic you have chosen provided a very interesting and alarming read. As a member of Generation Y, I have grown up and become accultured to the ever-changing technological advancements of today’s society. The statistics derived from Chinese and Korean children were startling and indeed cause for great concern. I do believe that Australians are as you said, in denial of just how reliant they are on the internet and technology in general. As stated in the previous post, George’s story reiterated the associated health consequences of this impulsive disorder. I appreciated that you were able to draw upon a link with this disorder and the detrimental effect it can have on familial and peer relationships and social interactions. Your well-researched discussion is evidence that action needs to be taken to educate and make society aware of just how dangerous and negatively this disorder can impact one’s life. Great job Simone!

<span style="display: block; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; text-align: center;">// References // <span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">AMA (2005). //Most teens get alcohol from parents or older friends.// Retrieved from: <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">[]

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2006). //A picture of the nation: the Statistician’s Report onthe 2006 Census, 2006//. Retrieved from: <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">[]

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) (2004-05) //Alcohol Consumption in Australia: A// <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">// Snapshot 2004-05. // Retrieved from: <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">[]

<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">Australian Government’s Department of Veterans Affairs (2009). //Alcohol and Injury.// <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;"> Retrieved from: []

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">Australian Government, Drug Strategy Branch in the Department of Health and Ageing, <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;"> (2005) //Australian secondary school students’ use of alcohol in 2005.// Retrieved from: []

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. (2008). //The impact of social networks and not// <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">// for-profit illicit drug dealing on illicit drug markets in Australia //. Retrieved from: <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">[]

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">Commonwealth of Australia. (2007). //Illicit drug use in Australia: Epidemiology, use patterns// <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">// and associated harm. // Retrieved from: [] <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing. (2001). //Alcohol in Australia: Issues and// <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">// Strategies //. Retrieved from: []

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing. (2001). //Developing national priorities for// <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">// alcohol research. // Retrieved from: []

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">Department of Education and Early Childhood Development (2010). //Teen Pregnancy Rate.// <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">Retrieved from: []

<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">Drinking Nightmare (2010). //Alcohol and Young People: A Guide for Parents.// Retrieved <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;"> from: [] <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">[|ent/parents]

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">Drug Rehab Treatment (2009). //Teen Alcohol Substance Abuse Issues.// Retrieved from: <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">[] = = <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">Kaiser, F. (2006). Sexual Health statistics for teenagers and young adults. Retrieved from: <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">[]

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">McCrindle, M. (2006). //From Builders & Boomers to Xers and Y’s: A Social Report on// <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">// Generations X and Y //. Retrieved from McCrindle Research: []

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">White, D (2006). Generation Y Profile. Retrieved from: <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 16px;">[]