Nutrition

The USDA dietary guidelines define late adolescence as the period from age 14 to 18. After puberty, the rate of physical growth slows down. Girls stop growing taller around age 16, while boys continue to grow taller until ages 18 to 20. One of the psychological and emotional changes that takes place during this life stage is the desire for independence as adolescents develop individual identities separate from their families. As teenagers make more of their dietary decisions, parents, caregivers, and authority figures should guide them toward appropriate, nutritious choices.

Accessing Healthy Food

Most people have access to fresh water in all except the most extreme situations, but some adolescents don’t have the food necessary for proper development and may be food insecure. In fact, although the need for food is one of the most fundamental and important human needs, more than 1 in 10 U.S. households contains people who live without enough nourishing food. This lack of proper nourishment has profound effects on individuals’ ability to lead lives that will allow them to develop to their fullest potential (Coleman-Jensen et al., 2022). When people are extremely hungry, their motivation to attain food completely changes their behavior. Hungry people become listless and apathetic to save energy and then become completely obsessed with food. Ancel Keys et al. (1950) found that volunteers who were placed on severely reduced-calorie diets lost all interest in sex and social activities and became preoccupied with food. According to Maslow, meeting one’s basic needs is vital for proper growth and development.

Immunization and Disease Prevention

The physiological changes that occur during puberty, including hormonal shifts and the maturation of bodily systems, can impact the immune system and make adolescents more susceptible to infections. Additionally, adolescents often engage in risk-taking behaviors, such as experimentation with drugs, alcohol, or tobacco, which can weaken their immune system and leave them vulnerable to diseases. Limited knowledge and awareness about disease prevention, safe sex practices, and healthy lifestyle choices further contribute to their increased risk. Peer interactions and social dynamics, along with crowded environments in schools and community settings provide opportunities for the spread of infectious diseases. Furthermore, travel and exploration activities can expose adolescents to new environments and potential disease risks.

Communicable Disease

A communicable disease, also known as an infectious or contagious disease, is an illness caused by the invasion and multiplication of infectious agents in the body, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, or prions. These diseases can spread from one person to another through various modes of transmission, including direct contact, respiratory droplets, blood or bodily fluid exchange, contaminated surfaces, and vectors like mosquitoes or ticks. When an infected individual comes into contact with a susceptible person, the infectious agent can be transmitted, leading to the development of the disease in the new host. Examples of communicable diseases include the common cold, influenza, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, malaria, hepatitis, and COVID-19. The severity of communicable diseases can range from mild to severe. Diseases can significantly impact individuals, communities, and even global populations. Preventive measures, such as vaccination, proper hygiene practices, use of personal protective equipment, and public health interventions, play a crucial role in controlling the spread of communicable diseases and protecting public health.

Adolescents can be at risk of communicable diseases due to a combination of factors related to their physical, social, and behavioral characteristics. Here are some reasons why adolescents may be more vulnerable:

• Sexual activity: Adolescents often begin exploring their sexuality during this stage of life. Engaging in sexual activity, especially without practicing safe sex measures like condom use, can put them at risk of STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV.
• Peer interactions: Adolescents tend to spend a significant amount of time with their peers, which can increase the likelihood of close contact and the spread of communicable diseases. Activities such as sharing food, drinks, or personal items can facilitate the transmission of diseases, such as the common cold, influenza, and mononucleosis.
• Limited knowledge and awareness: Adolescents may have limited knowledge about communicable diseases and their prevention. This lack of awareness can lead to risky behaviors and poor hygiene practices, making them more susceptible to infections.
• Substance use: Substance use, including alcohol and drug abuse, is more common among some adolescents. Substance use can impair judgment, leading to risky behaviors, such as engaging in unprotected sex or sharing needles, which can increase the risk of contracting HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
• School and community settings: Adolescents often spend a significant amount of time in school and community settings, where they come into contact with a large number of people. Close quarters, poor ventilation, and limited hygiene practices in these settings can facilitate the spread of respiratory infections, such as the flu or COVID-19.
• Travel and exploration: Adolescents may engage in travel or exploration activities, which can expose them to communicable diseases prevalent in different regions or countries. Lack of vaccination or immunity to specific diseases can make them more susceptible to infections.

Vehicle/Drivers Education Safety

Anthony is now a vibrant and energetic teenage boy eagerly counting down the days until he gets his driver’s license. With a sparkle in his eyes and an infectious enthusiasm, he imagines the freedom and independence that will soon be within his grasp. Anthony’s anticipation grows with each passing moment as he envisions the open road beckoning him to embark on thrilling adventures and explore new horizons. The prospect of driving, with its endless possibilities and newfound responsibilities, ignites a fire within him, fueling his dreams and aspirations. Ready to embrace this milestone in his life, Anthony is on the cusp of an exciting journey that will shape his sense of identity and open doors to a world of newfound possibilities.

Vehicle safety is of utmost importance for adolescents like Anthony who are learning to drive or are passengers in a vehicle. Optimal safety for adolescents includes adequate driver training, but it also includes learning how to be a safe passenger. In 2020, there were approximately 2,800 vehicle-related adolescent fatalities (CDC, 2022). The majority of adolescent deaths involved adolescent drivers carrying adolescent passengers.

Here are some key points to consider for ensuring adolescent vehicle safety:

• Seat belt usage: Adolescents should always wear their seat belts, whether they are driving or riding as a passenger. Seat belts are the most effective safety feature in a vehicle and can significantly reduce the risk of injury or fatality in the event of a crash.
• Avoid distractions: Distractions, such as using a mobile phone, eating, or adjusting the radio, can greatly impair a driver’s ability to react quickly and make safe decisions. Adolescents should be educated about the dangers of distracted driving and encouraged to focus solely on the road.
• Defensive driving: Adolescents should be taught defensive driving techniques, including maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, scanning the road for potential hazards, and anticipating the actions of other drivers. This helps them respond effectively to unexpected situations.
• Speeding: Speeding is a common cause of accidents among young drivers. Adolescents should be educated about the risks associated with excessive speed and the importance of obeying speed limits.
• Impaired driving: Adolescents must understand the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. They should be aware of the legal consequences and the potential for serious accidents and injuries. Encourage them to always designate a sober driver or use alternative transportation when necessary.
• Nighttime driving: Driving at night can be more challenging, especially for inexperienced drivers. Adolescents should practice driving at night with adult supervision to gain confidence and develop the skills needed for safe nighttime driving.
• Avoid peer pressure: Adolescents should be encouraged to avoid risky behaviors influenced by peer pressure, such as reckless driving, overcrowding in vehicles, and participating in street racing. Emphasize the importance of making responsible choices and speaking up against unsafe practices.
• Vehicle maintenance: Adolescents should understand the importance of regular vehicle maintenance, including tire checks, brake inspections, and routine servicing. A well-maintained vehicle reduces the risk of mechanical failures that can lead to accidents.
• Weather conditions: Adolescents should be cautious when driving in adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog. Educate them about appropriate adjustments in driving techniques and the importance of slowing down and maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles.
• Model safe behavior: Parents and guardians play a crucial role in modeling safe driving behavior. Adolescents are more likely to adopt safe driving practices if they see responsible behavior demonstrated consistently by their adult role models.

Equity Issues in Driver’s Safety Education

Various equity issues can affect adolescents’ access to driver’s safety courses and create disparities in the opportunities and resources available to different groups. Here are some equity issues that may arise:

• Financial barriers: The cost associated with driver’s safety courses can be a significant barrier for many adolescents and their families. Courses, study materials, and licensing fees can be expensive, making them unaffordable for low-income individuals and communities. This creates an inequity where those who can afford the courses have better access to driver’s education and safety training.
• Geographical disparities: Access to driver’s safety courses may be limited in certain geographic areas, particularly in rural or underserved communities. This can be due to a lack of driving schools or limited availability of instructors and resources. Adolescents in these areas may face challenges in finding nearby courses or have to travel long distances to attend them.
• Language and cultural barriers: Language barriers can pose challenges for adolescents from non-English speaking backgrounds. If driver’s safety courses are predominantly available only in English, it may exclude individuals who are not proficient in the language. Additionally, cultural factors may influence the accessibility of courses. For example, courses that do not consider cultural diversity or fail to provide culturally relevant information may hinder effective learning and engagement.
• Transportation accessibility: Lack of transportation options can hinder adolescents’ ability to attend driver’s safety courses. In communities with limited public transportation or where individuals rely heavily on public transportation, getting to and from the course locations can be a challenge. This can disproportionately affect low-income individuals who may not have access to a reliable vehicle or public transportation options.
• School-based disparities: Some adolescents have the opportunity to attend driver’s safety courses through their school programs. However, not all schools offer such courses, and disparities may exist based on the resources and funding available to different schools. Schools in disadvantaged areas may lack the necessary funding or resources to provide comprehensive driver’s safety education.
• Digital divide: With the increasing availability of online driver’s safety courses, the digital divide can create disparities. Adolescents without reliable internet access or access to computers may face difficulties in participating in online courses. This can disproportionately affect individuals from low-income households or rural areas with limited internet connectivity.

Addressing these equity issues requires proactive measures:

• providing financial assistance or scholarships to ensure affordability
• ensuring the availability of driver’s safety courses in diverse languages
• promoting cultural competence and inclusivity within driver’s safety curricula
• expanding the availability of courses in underserved areas, including rural communities
• offering transportation assistance for adolescents who face difficulties accessing course locations
• advocating for equal access to driver’s safety education across schools
• bridging the digital divide by providing internet access and computers to those in need

By addressing these equity issues, we can ensure that all adolescents have the opportunity to learn and practice safe driving skills.

Racism in Vehicle Safety

Black Americans face disproportionate risk in traffic violations, often experiencing heightened scrutiny and harsher consequences compared to their White counterparts. Studies consistently reveal racial biases in law enforcement practices, leading to increased stops, searches, and citations for Black drivers. For Black teenage boys, encounters with police carry added layers of complexity and danger. These young men must navigate a delicate balance of asserting their rights while prioritizing their safety. They often undergo specific training on how to interact with law enforcement to mitigate potential harm. The unfortunate reality is that for many Black Americans, routine traffic stops can escalate into life-threatening situations, highlighting the urgent need for systemic change and greater accountability within law enforcement agencies.

“Driving while Black” is a term used to describe the racial profiling and discriminatory practices experienced by Black individuals during traffic stops or while operating a vehicle. Black drivers are disproportionately targeted by law enforcement officers based on their race, leading to heightened scrutiny, unwarranted stops, searches, and sometimes escalated encounters. This phenomenon reflects systemic racism within the wider criminal justice system, where Black individuals are unfairly targeted and subjected to harassment or violence solely because of their race. The term underscores this pervasive racial bias, highlighting the need for reforms to address racial profiling and ensure equitable treatment for all drivers regardless of race.

It’s crucial to recognize that Indigenous and Latinx-identifying drivers also face disproportionately high rates of police violence during traffic stops. The systemic biases that pervade law enforcement interactions extend to these communities as well, resulting in heightened risk and vulnerability. Furthermore, it’s essential to acknowledge that drivers who identify as women report higher rates of sexual assault during traffic stops, adding another layer of danger and injustice to these encounters.

By broadening the discussion to encompass the experiences of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) and female-identifying drivers, driver’s education courses can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the intersecting issues at play during police stops. This not only empowers BIPOC students and students who identify as women to navigate encounters with law enforcement safely, but it also serves as a crucial lesson for White students and students who identify as men. By recognizing the systemic biases that exist, White students and students who identify as men can better understand their privilege and the role it plays in perpetuating unequal treatment. Educating all students about the disparities in traffic stops fosters empathy, awareness, and a collective commitment to dismantling racist and sexist police-driver interactions. It’s not just about preparing individuals for the road; it’s about equipping them with the knowledge and awareness to strive for a more just and equitable society.

Gun Violence

Gun violence poses a significant problem for adolescent well-being, encompassing a range of physical, psychological, and societal consequences. This issue affects young people’s lives across various regions, often leading to devastating outcomes.

Adolescents who are victims of gun violence can suffer severe physical injuries, including gunshot wounds, permanent disabilities, and even fatalities. These injuries not only impact their immediate well-being but can also have long-term consequences, such as chronic pain, mobility issues, and emotional trauma.

Witnessing or experiencing gun violence can have profound psychological effects on adolescents. They may develop symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. These experiences can disrupt their emotional well-being, hinder academic performance, and impair social relationships.

The constant threat of gun violence creates a pervasive atmosphere of fear and insecurity among adolescents. This fear can lead to heightened anxiety, stress, and a diminished sense of safety. It may also limit their ability to engage in regular daily activities, such as attending school, participating in extracurricular activities, and socializing with peers.

Gun violence in and around schools can disrupt the learning environment for adolescents. Frequent lockdowns, security measures, and trauma-related distractions impede academic progress. Moreover, students may experience difficulty concentrating, lower educational attainment, and increased dropout rates due to the fear and trauma associated with gun violence.

The impact of gun violence during adolescence can extend well into adulthood. Survivors may face ongoing physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Additionally, exposure to violence at a young age increases the risk of engaging in violent behavior or becoming involved in criminal activities later in life, perpetuating the cycle of violence.

Gun violence in adolescence affects not only the individuals directly involved but also their families, friends, and communities. The loss of young lives and the resultant grief and trauma reverberate throughout society. Communities affected by gun violence often experience a breakdown of trust, social cohesion, and economic development.

Addressing the problem of gun violence in relation to adolescent well-being requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves implementing comprehensive gun control measures, improving access to mental health services, promoting conflict resolution and nonviolent communication, fostering community engagement, and providing support systems for affected individuals and communities. By prioritizing prevention, intervention, and support, we can work toward creating safer environments for adolescents and improving their overall well-being.

Licenses and Attributions for Health and Wellness

“Health and Wellness” by Carrie Durbin is licensed under CC BY 4.0.