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The Influence of Role Models on Young People Essay

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Role models have an astounding effect on the lives of young people in our society. A role model has the ability to shape the views, ideals, and actions of a young person. Role models help youth to discover how they wish to become in the future. The influence that role models have over young people is tremendous. It is important for role models to be positive and responsible in instilling good morals and values because future generations are directly dependent on the role models of today. By examining the influence of role models, role models in the community, and role models in the media, we will be able to determine the true effect that role models have on the lives of youth.

Community role models are people that youngsters interact …show more content…

For example, a role model who is a thief may cause a young person to believe that stealing is acceptable and tolerable, which it is not. Community role models definitely need to step up and take a more prevalent role in the lives youth.

Role models in the media are also essential for young people. These are idols, actors, athletes, authors, politicians, revolutionaries or any other person who is known because of their fame. Media role models have a high influence over young people because they are often placed on a pedestal, and worshipped like gods. It is important for youth to be wary of negative media role models because they may glamorize truly wrong values. An example of this is seen if we look at Paris Hilton. She lives a fascinating and alluring lifestyle, yet was convicted for driving under the influence of alcohol. Because of her, many other young girls may believe that drinking and driving is okay, or even cool. Role models in the media are important because of the widespread effect they have on youth all over the world.

The influence that role models have over young people is vast and great. Role models can affect a young person’s beliefs, or possibly change their entire outlook on life. Young people may want to imitate the desirable traits they see in role models. Role models can also have an effect on one’s decision-making process. The choices a young person makes in life are directly associated with his or her

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