Now, more than ever, celebrities are
extremely influential in the lives of teenagers. While there are
certainly some positive role models for teens among today’s celebrities, there
are also many who provide a decidedly negative influence. Teens who try to
emulate these celebrities may fall victim to several different issues, which
includes drug abuse or drug addiction, high consumption of alcohol, eating
disorders, low self-esteem and low self-confidence.
It seems like every day there are more and
more stories and pictures on the Internet of the illicit activities of
celebrities. Teens see these people partying, drinking alcohol or taking drugs,
and they think they should too. This sends the message to teens that in order
to have fun or be cool; you have to use these substances. Teens may begin to
think that it is no big deal, and this can cause serious problems leading to
and including drug and alcohol addictions, risk-taking behaviors, and even
death.
Some of the most common problems that occur
are issues with self-esteem for teens, especially teen girls. When a teen girl
flips through her favorite fashion magazine, she is inundated with pictures and
articles revolving around the erroneous belief that celebrities are perfect.
The air-brushed pictures, workout and diet tips, and pin-thin models can cause
body images issues for teens. In trying to make themselves look like the
pictures that they see, teens can cause real damage to their bodies. Working
out too much or not eating enough can lead to an eating disorder, such as
anorexia or bulimia.
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