Angry & Violent Teens

Violence is an everyday part of teenage life in America. According to this program, one out of every three teens has been involved in a physical fight in the past year, and the second leading cause of death in young people is murder. This straightforward, investigative-reporting style program explores the reasons behind these sobering statistics while also offering hope for solutions. A behavioral psychologist compares teen violence to a glass of root beer: the anger is only the foam on top; the soda underneath represents the other emotions that aren't as easily expressed, or causes not immediately apparent. In addition to looking at the glorification of violence in pop culture, the program features several teens who share their personal stories of struggling with anger and violence, which are often tied to a difficult home life. Parents are presented here as both highly influential (in positive and negative ways) and instrumental in helping their kids deal with anger and violence in appropriate ways. The final segment offers an interesting look at a “violence with rules” situation in which a young championship boxer reserves his fighting for the ring. A solid overview of a perennially troubling issue, this is recommended. Aud: J, H, P. (E. Gieschen)