Todays teens all seem to be labelled. When people describe themselves with the term 'typical teenager', everybody thinks the same; Hooded thug, hanging around outside their local co-op. The elderly generation all fear for their safety and belongings around teenagers in the twentyfirst century, but... we're not all the same!
As a 17 year old growing up in Southampton, I dont find myself drunk outside shops or high on some illegal drug on a Saturday night. Im not saying I dont go out, have a few to drink and have a good time, but I dont fit the stereotype of a typical teen. Especially one growing up in a city like Southampton.
I know people who fit the stereotype perfectly. They drink in excess, take drugs, have no respect for their elders and disrespect the constituency in which they live. And thanks to the media which has become so easy to access these days, the antics these certain teenagers get up to end up on our television screens, blasting through our radios and shown on our computers. So I understand why it is teenagers have got this name for themselves. However, I dont find it fair that we are all tared with the same brush.
I attend college 5 days a week, I have a part time job 2 evenings a week. At weekends I do go out and have a good time with my friends. But I cant say Ive ever been in a situation where I've caused upset or damage to anyone or anything within my local community.
So, when critising the 'youth of today' and the younger generation, remember.. we're not all the same. And we certainly do not all fit into this stereotype thoughtlessly thrown upon us. Just because a select few of the generation act inappropriately, does not mean we all do!
