Athletes, Alcohol, & Steroids: What's Wrong with This Picture?

Alcohol and steroids both have serious negative effects on a person's physical condition, so why would an athlete, whose peak performance depends on the body being in top form, risk using these substances? Aimed at teens, this comprehensive, factual look at the choices and consequences of substance abuse features three high school athletes and three adult experts (two psychologists and a narcotics officer), who present a well-rounded exploration of the links between athletes, alcohol, and steroids. While alcohol's effects are fairly straightforward, steroids are more complicated as they provide a physical edge to athletes—but at a high price. The decision to avoid these substances is shown as a smart, normal lifestyle choice, and while the illegal aspects of underage drinking and steroid usage are mentioned, the program abstains from using any scare tactics. Looking at the root of the problem, the presentation examines two triggers: first, pointing to the culture of celebrity that surrounds athletics in American schools, with the concomitant pressure to succeed and win that drives young people to make poor choices. More blameworthy, however, are money and media, as alcohol advertising dollars are poured into sporting events and a party-hardy image, while stories of professional athletes' flagrant steroid use sends the message that the drugs are necessary to achieve athletic stardom. Better media literacy and myth debunking are suggested to combat these mixed messages, and the accompanying curriculum helps do just that. Recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (E. Gieschen)