Are all teenagers bad?

Teenagers are often the victims of mass media coverage, suffering the negative stigma and connotations that the news portrays of them. Troublesome and misbehaving teens have become a well-known stereotype in Britain today, creating a moral panic that many innocent young adults have suffered the burden of. From the London riots to local school children clashing in the streets, modern media institutions have sensationalised the idea of the deviant, hooligan or even ‘rebellious’ teenager. Although not all of society’s youth are perfect, the question we must ask ourselves is 'Are all teenagers bad?'

For teenagers in Bexley, the answer is seemingly no. This month, the annual Civic Celebration for student achievement in Bexley schools took place, where secondary school students, who were nominated by their schools, came to be acknowledged and commended on their outstanding attainment. Ranging from academic, art, sporting, community service and progress awards, each nominated student had, in their own way, served not only themselves, but also their schools and borough. These students are exemplary examples of the promise and potential that today’s youth posses; defying modern stereotypes held to their age group as well as acting as a reminder of why teenagers should be celebrated for their accomplishments, and not scrutinised for the actions of a few individuals or groups.

The Cabinet Member for Education, Councilor Rob Leitch said; “The fact that these children and young people had put their hearts, minds and souls into working hard and doing their best is testament to the support they have received from home and school. A real credit to their families and schools. I congratulate them all on their success.”

These individuals only represent a minority of outstanding students and teen achievers across the country. Does the media only portray, and emphasise, the negative image of teenagers in modern day - creating an over-simplified idea that teens are a trouble-making age group? It is young achievers, such as those in our borough of Bexley, that perhaps challenge this idea.

Is the misrepresentation of teenagers today an injustice for youths in Britain?

Lucy O'Brien - Erith School