Teenagers - Who'd have them?
Friday 16 February 2024
At Meiji we will and do. Certainly since WW2, teenagers have had a bad press. They've been called teddy-boys (and girls), juvenile delinquents, mods, rockers, punks, rockabillies, goths, yoof, and many other derisory names. They appear to be a problem. But just what IS their problem?
In the 'swinging sixties', there was little sympathy for them. They had everything their parents and previous generations had missed. A music explosion, fashion, cash in their pockets, sexual freedom, opportunities everywhere. Drugs in quantity also started to appear in this period. And today, social media can be added to their benefits in a big way. Today's teenagers might not quite see it like that, of course, because they've never known a world WITHOUT social media and mobile communications.
But there are always two sides to every coin. Today, there are social, economic and psychological pressures like we've never seen before. Mental health problems, depression and suicide are at an all- time high. Social media has created an explosion in peer pressure, cyber bullying and, ironically, increased isolation. Psychologists equate this to actual physical pain. Online content creates unrealistic expectations about happiness, body image and praise, with an undercurrent of fear about being ostracised or 'left out'.
FOR GIRLS, mental health issues are particularly painful. Then safety (the streets seem to grow ever more alien). Sexual harassment and sexism are also a concern, with often severe barriers to taking part in sport and physical activity.
FOR BOYS, anxiety and depression are on the rise, with exam pressures, an unstable jobs market, and conflicting messages around masculinity. At school, there is double the rate of suspensions compared to girls. Boys are more likely to perpetrate and become victims of violent crime. They are more likely to be sleeping rough or in a cell, and more likely to use and abuse illegal drugs and alcohol.
For all teenagers, there's also the uncontrollable rush of hormones to contend with, while at the same time they're trying to make sense of the crazy world around them.
So, who'd have them? Well, at Meiji we will and do. Because this article isn't an indictment - it's a recognition about the reality of teenagers, based on many years working with them and providing a haven for them. Our teenage classes are burgeoning, because we have answers to all the issues we've talked about here. Let's look at them.
Depression & suicide. This is a mental state where nothing seems worth living for. It can happen to anyone. It's no use someone saying “Pull yourself together”. When the black dog visits, you can lose the ability to deal with it. Reach out to Meiji Martial Arts and we'll reach out to you. Our whole structure is founded on personal achievement. Something to strive for.
Peer pressure. It's an illusion, but very real if you lack self-confidence and self-discipline. We are experts in helping you build both. Becoming a unique and successful individual puts you above peer pressure.
Isolation. No need. Join a class and you're not alone. Friendships formed at Meiji often will last a lifetime.
Body image. It's how you feel inside which matters, not what's on TikTok. If you feel great, you'll look great.
Safety. It can be a dangerous world. Learning martial arts gives you a better understanding of physical behaviour and aggressive attitudes. You build confidence and learn to handle situations. All in the safe environment of a Meiji Dojo, where experienced instructors look after you at all times.
Barriers. These are psychological and easily dismantled in a Meiji Dojo. There are no barriers between the sexes. And with our grading system, each belt is a challenge for you to overcome and achieve. Success becomes a natural, upward process.