Showing papers in "Adolescent medicine (Philadelphia) in 1993"

Children, Adolescents, and the Media: Five Crucial Issues.

Abstract: Television and other media represent the single most important modifiable influence on children and adolescents in the 1990s. Five issues are examined in this context: the extent to which the media influence children and adolescents; the varying susceptibility of children and adolescents to media influence; the validity of relevant research; strategies to improve the quality of the media; and the role of the primary-care physician.

Mass Media, Sex, and Sexuality.

Abstract: The average age of first sexual intercourse, the high rate of teenage pregnancies, and the spread of sexually transmitted diseases indicate the extent to which sex and sexuality have created major threats to adolescent health. A crucial factor is the highly sexual content of the media. The authors examine factors that determine selection of and reaction to sexual content in the media, including gender and racial differences and family structure.

Media Violence: Q & A.

Abstract: In a question-and-answer format, the authors survey the problem of violence in American television and movies. Central themes include the extent of violent content, the manner in which violence is portrayed, research methodology for studying the effects of violent content on children and adolescents, common myths related to the issue, and strategies for effecting change.

Pornography's Impact on Male Adolescents.

Abstract: Although some male adolescents may be harmed by exposure to pornography, little research addresses this issue directly, partly because of ethical and political restraints. The author discusses definitions of both pornography and harm as well as the extent and effect of exposure among male adolescents.

Risk Factors and Risk Behaviors in Prevention of Adolescent Substance Abuse.

Abstract: Although substance abuse is both preventable and treatable, few primary care physicians include its prevention or assessment in their routine practice. The authors examine strategies for identifying risk factors in adolescents, such as family history, persistent behavioral problems, failure at school, interpersonal alienation, and peer pressure. Also analyzed are both the opportunities and the barriers faced by physicians in the treatment of adolescent substance abuse.

Television, Obesity, and Eating Disorders.

Abstract: Two national survey from the early 1960s indicate that the prevalence of obesity is directly related to the amount of time spent in viewing television in young people aged 6 to 17 years. The author discusses the mechanisms by which television affects obesity and other eating disorders.

Effects of Media Alcohol Messages on Adolescent Audiences.

Abstract: Research into the effects of the media on teenage alcohol consumption has concentrated on positive portrayals of beer drinking in advertising, depiction of alcohol in movies and television programs, and public service announcements that warn against abuse and drunk driving. After examining each of these areas, the author focuses on the future role of messages related to alcohol consumption. Language: en

Adolescents, Drugs, and the Media.

Abstract: Although tobacco and alcohol involve a high rate of morbidity and mortality, both remain widely advertised in the media. After a review of research into the influence of television and advertisements and an overview of the policies of the tobacco and alcohol industries, the author proposes ten specific steps to minimize detrimental effects on adolescents, including a total ban on tobacco advertising in all media and on beer and wine advertising in the broadcast media.

Rock Music and Music Videos.

Abstract: Sex, violence, sexual violence, drugs, suicide, satanic worship, and racism are common themes in modern rock lyrics. The authors examine their effect on adolescent development and identity, concluding with a discussion of the roles of parents and health care professionals in addressing the problem.

Adolescent Nicotine Use and Dependence.

Abstract: Because regular, compulsive smoking usually begins in childhood or adolescence, pediatricians and other clinicians with adolescent patients have a unique opportunity to treat and prevent nicotine addiction before it causes lasting harm or death. The author examines the pharmacology, toxicity, and natural history of nicotine addiction as well as its relationship to other drug problems and methods of clinical management.

Alcohol and Adolescents.

Abstract: Multiple studies show that 45-50% of adolescent victims of violent death have been drinking alcohol before the fatal incident. The authors examine the acute effects of alcohol on the brain and on behavior, discuss the types of teenage alcoholism, and then focus on specific issues such as patterns of inheritance, alcohol use during pregnancy, and fetal alcohol syndrome. Language: en

Television and School Performance.

Abstract: Although the question of whether television harms, helps, or has no effect on school performance has engaged researchers for many years, the answer remains elusive. Before-after studies and survey studies are controversial in terms of both interpretation and methodology. The author argues for integration of television into the curriculum to take advantage of its unique potential for democratization.

Influence of Drug Use on Adolescent Sexual Activity.

Abstract: Because of the biopsychosocial events associated with adolescence, young people are at increased risk for engaging in risky behaviors that help them to cope with the transition into adulthood. The concept of covariation suggests that adolescents at risk for substance abuse are also at risk for unsafe sexual activity; both behaviors greatly compromise future well-being. The author examines the specific effects of various drugs on sexual behavior.

Psychiatric, Developmental, and Adolescent Medicine Issues in Adolescent Substance Use and Abuse.

Abstract: After an overview of the developmental goals of early, middle, and late adolescence, the authors discuss the demographics and patterns of comorbidity. The high incidence both of psychiatric symptoms in the substance-abusing population and of drug abuse in the psychiatric population complicates diagnosis and treatment of both disorders, especially when treatment services are separate, as in the public sector. The adolescent medicine physician can perform a valuable role in bridging the gap.

Killing Us Softly: Gender Roles in Advertising.

Abstract: Recent years have brought an increasing awareness that advertising sells images of success, normalcy, sexuality, and love as well as specific products Stereotypes of gender roles, reinforced through ideal images of physical beauty and body language, have negative effects on both men and women The author concludes with a discussion of strategies for effecting change

Adolescent Substance Use and Addictions: Epidemiology, Current Trends, and Public Policy.

Abstract: Although the proportion of high school seniors who use illicit drugs has declined from 54% in 1979 to 29% in 1991, substance use and addiction are still major problems among adolescents. The authors examine epidemiologic and demographic data for each of the major illicit drugs, focusing on relevant factors such as age, gender, educational plans, socioeconomic status, geographic region, population density, race, and ethnicity. This analysis leads to a discussion of policies that may further decrease the use of illicit drugs.

Sex Roles and Stereotyping on Television.

Abstract: Gender-role images on television emphasize ideal body types and stereotypical patterns of behavior that influence the way in which adolescents view their peers of both sexes as well as themselves. The degree of change in society is not reflected in the content of television commercials or programs, which continue to reinforce traditional concepts of physical appearance, marriage, power, and occupational roles.

Testing for Drugs of Abuse: Controversies and Techniques.

Abstract: Testing for drugs of abuse involves screening tests, designed for maximal sensitivity, and confirming tests, designed for maximal specificity. The author offers practical suggestions for testing, examines various procedures, reviews legal and ethical issues, and warns against common pitfalls.

Alcohol and Cigarette Advertising: A Legal Primer.

Abstract: Legal precedent for the regulation of commercial speech makes clear that the First Amendment does not prohibit government control of alcohol and cigarette advertising. A review of federal legislation suggests that the problem lies with the political process rather than with constitutional prohibition.

Office Assessment of Substance Abuse and Addiction.

Abstract: Various factors prevent the primary care physician from implementing effective diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of substance abuse among adolescents, including time constraints, practice styles, inadequate reimbursement, and physician discomfort The author examines the positive outcomes of physician involvement as well as the negative consequences of noninvolvement and recommends strategies and resources to aid the primary care physician in coping with adolescents suspected of substance abuse

Adolescent Children of Alcoholics.

Abstract: Children from families with an alcoholic member are at increased risk of emotional, cognitive, behavioral, social, medical, and substance abuse problems. The authors review the characteristics of such children and the factors that increase their vulnerability; discuss the problems of codependency and enabling; and explore clinical presentations and treatment issues for both adolescent children of alcoholics and their families.

Treatment Issues in Adolescent Substance Use and Addictions: Options, Outcome, Effectiveness, Reimbursement, and Admission Criteria.

Abstract: Cost-reduction strategies and a lack of overall perspective have created a potentially dangerous climate for the treatment of the various forms of adolescent substance abuse. The authors argue for a holistic approach that focuses on demographics, family issues, school functioning, and other related problems as well as on careful evaluation of treatment outcome and criteria for admission, continued stay, and discharge from treatment programs.

Adolescent Trauma: Epidemiologic Approach.

Abstract: Trauma caused by all types of injury is the leading reason for visits to the emergency department, hospital admission, and death among adolescents in the United States. Injury related to motor vehicles is the predominant killer, followed by homicide, suicide, drowning, and firearm accidents. In addition, the rate of injuries resulting from sports (both organized and unsupervised) and recreational activity increases throughout adolescence. The task for the physician in the emergency setting is not only to treat bodily damage but also to introduce the subject of prevention and to assess other injury risks for a given patient.

Anabolic Steroid and Ergogenic Drug Use by Adolescents.

Abstract: Enhancement of body image and improvement of athletic performance, with anticipated gains in self-esteem, are the major motives underlying adolescent use of anabolic steroids and ergogenic drugs. The authors discuss prevalence and availability, side effects and monetary cost, dependency and withdrawal syndromes, and clinical management of adolescent abusers.

Ethnic and Cultural Factors in Substance Abuse.

Abstract: Health care providers must recognize the importance of multicultural training in any effective diagnostic, treatment, or prevention service for substance abuse among adolescents. Current estimates indicate that by the year 2020, minorities will constitute 40% of all school-age Americans. The authors examine the cultural differences among the four major ethnic groups-African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asian/Pacific Islanders, and Native/Alaskan Americans-and then discuss the design of programs targeted at each.

Illicit Drugs of Abuse.

Abstract: The authors discuss in detail the pharmacology and toxicity of illicit drugs that pose a major threat to adolescent health, including marijuana, cocaine, hallucinogens, opiates, inhalants, and designer drugs. The discussion of each drug concludes with guidelines for clinical management of adolescent users.

Substance Misuse and Trauma: Clinical Issues and Injury Prevention in Adolescents.

Abstract: This chapter explores the common ground shared by substance abuse specialists and clinicians involved in the treatment of physical injury and highlights the role of prevention initiatives in reducing adolescent trauma. Motor vehicle accidents, interpersonal violence, and suicide are related to substance abuse, and case studies are used to illustrate the potential efficacy of prevention strategies. Language: en

Adolescents, Parenting, and the Media in the Twenty-First Century.

Abstract: After analyzing the role of the media in perceptions of adolescence and parenting, the author contrasts the traditional concept of adolescent immaturity with the postmodern concept of adolescent sophistication. Ramifications for family structure and family ties are explored, along with recommendations for the future.

Adolescent Gynecologic Conditions Presenting in Emergency Settings.

Abstract: What an adolescent patient and her parents define as a gynecologic emergency often proves to be merely a prolonged period. Nevertheless, because gynecologic complaints can be serious, each patient must be thoroughly evaluated. Common problems include dysfunctional uterine bleeding (mild, moderate, or severe), ectopic pregnancy, pelvic inflammatory disease, spontaneous abortion, and abdominal pain. Diagnosis and management of each of these conditions are discussed in detail.

Drug-related Coma in the Adolescent.

Abstract: The poisoned and comatose adolescent presents numerous diagnostic and management problems. Often interventions must be performed before a specific diagnosis is made. A history may be impossible to obtain, thus forcing the physician to rely on physical findings, rapid diagnostic testing, and expectant supportive care. The first stage of treatment is stabilization, which involves basic and advanced life support, rapid assessment, presumptive substrate and antidotal therapy, and gastrointestinal decontamination. The second stage, definitive care, requires a careful history, detailed physical examination, and diagnostic studies tailored to narrow the possible etiologies. The authors describe each stage in detail, including evaluation and treatment, as well as discuss common toxic causes of coma in adolescents.