There has been an increase in the prevalence of discrimination against adolescents based on their race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability status, and more. This can manifest itself in many ways, such as bullying, harassment, exclusion from activities, verbal abuse, physical assault, and online trolling. Adolescents may face social pressure to ignore these behaviors or even join in on them, but they also have the ability to challenge them when necessary. How do adolescents decide whether to speak up or stay silent?
One factor that influences this decision is personal risk assessment. When confronting discriminatory behavior, there are potential risks for both the victim and the perpetrator. The victim may experience physical harm, emotional distress, social isolation, or legal repercussions if they choose to challenge the behavior. On the other hand, the perpetrator may face consequences from peers, authority figures, or law enforcement. Adolescents must weigh these risks carefully before taking action.
Another important consideration is cultural context. In some cultures, speaking out against discrimination may be seen as taboo or dangerous.
Some communities view challenging gender norms as a threat to traditional values and may retaliate with violence or shunning. In others, challenging racial bias may be perceived as betrayal of one's own community. Adolescents may need to consider how their actions will impact their family, friends, and broader community.
Adolescents make decisions about speaking out based on their individual beliefs and values. Some prioritize justice and equality, while others may feel more loyalty to their group or family. This can lead to conflicts between personal morality and societal expectations, requiring careful reflection and communication.
Adolescent decision-making around discriminatory behavior is complex and nuanced. While every situation is unique, individuals must balance personal safety, cultural pressures, and ethical principles when determining whether to speak up or stay silent. By understanding these factors, we can better support young people in navigating challenging situations and promoting positive change.
How do adolescents negotiate social risk and reward when deciding whether to challenge discriminatory behavior?
Adolescent decision making regarding challenging discriminatory behaviors is influenced by multiple factors. The main factors are the psychosocial development of the individual, their cultural upbringing, and the contextual norms that they may be surrounded by. Adolescence is a period of growth and exploration, and as such, individuals tend to experiment with different ways of being in the world.