Question

Find several online and/or print magazines/periodicals intended for teen age audiences (ages 13-18 years). Look through the sources and a) find trends in the types of articles; b) identify types of products (e.g. tampons, acne medications, electronics, etc.) geared toward teenagers through these magazines. Are there any differences in those geared for boys than those aimed at girls? How important is physical attractiveness? c) If you were an alien from another planet who had the job of figuring out something about teenage boys and girls from the sources you found what conclusions would you draw? d) How important do you think the media is in influencing adolescents and what are the positives and negatives associated with this influence? e) What are the common concerns that adolescents face (use your text and PowerPoint notes for this) and how do the ads you found contribute to or perhaps lessen these concerns? Include magazine/internet sources in your answer and make sure you are commenting on all parts of the question.

Answer 1

Most of the articles in magazines for youth are aimed at popularising some teen icons, advertising products, and some (not so accurate) quizzes, with real issues concerning adolescent mental health being secondary. Products that influence teen concerns with respect to weight, appearance, and menstruation are advertised-mainly including, acne medication, sanitary needs, and gadgets such, and they appear to be targeted more towards girls. All of the above put subtle undue importance of physical attractiveness, and adolescents are especially susceptible to it; which in turn leads then to having emotional and self-esteem concerns.

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