Books in It Happened to me series

For teens too shy to talk to mom and dad about sex, author L. Kris Gowen offers them sound advice on a highly personal level, filling in some of the blanks in their knowledge about sex and relationships. Specifically designed to help young adults aged 16-19 make their own decisions about sexuality, Sexual Decisions is not only about the facts of sexual health, but it also delves into the feelings and emotions that surround sex. The philosophy of this book is: _ Teens have a right to ask questions and get answers. _ Teens already know a lot about sex and relationships, but not all there is to know. _ Teens are going to make decisions for themselves about sex. Having access to information can help them make better, safer decisions. _ No question should be left unanswered. The information included in this book is relevant to the lives of teens but includes topics that are not often discussed. It provides an education about sex that is practical, and gives teens a sense of what is going on 'out there'_in other people and the worlds of research and politics_as well as inside themselves.

Bullying is a widespread problem that affects thousands of teens across the United States and around the world. Victims of bullying battle depression, anxiety, insecurity, and fear. Sadly, some victims internalize their frustration by harming themselves or become bullies as well. But if young people agree that bullying is so devastating, why does it continue? Most importantly, how can it be stopped? In Bullying: The Ultimate Teen Guide, Mathangi Subramanian addresses these and other questions about a major issue for young adults and their families. Drawing on stories from young teens around the country, this volume uncovers the social pressures and individual choices that lead to violence. The author surveys effective state, local, and national anti-bullying policies and provides examples of teens throughout the nation whose leadership and courage have helped stop violence. This volume also contains exercises and strategies for young adults to employ that can pave the way for social action. Topics covered in this book include:What makes a bullyThe impact bullying has on victims, perpetrators, and witnessesTypes of bullying, such as sexual harassment and dating violenceCyberbullyingWhat to do if you are bulliedStrategies to combat bullying at school and elsewhere Resources Featuring a diverse collection of teen voices, this book is designed to help teens take immediate action both individually and collectively. The advice and exercises will not only help teens think critically about bullying but will also empower them to change both themselves and the circumstances that foster abuse in their schools and communities. Bullying: The Ultimate Teen Guide is a much-needed resource to help stem the tide of this social epidemic.

There are a variety of reasons young people turn to drugs, and the impact of such behavior can often be devastating. Whether alcohol, marijuana, ecstasy, or the latest drug of choice, substance abuse among teens continues to be a concern. This disorder affects so many people in one way or another, not only the addicted individual but also his or her family members and friends. In Substance Abuse: The Ultimate Teen Guide, Sheri Mabry Bestor looks at the various reasons why young people experiment with drugs and alcohol—and the consequences of doing so. Written to help young adults and those close to them understand substance abuse disorder, this book is full of important and practical information from various experts. In addition to facts, statistics, and advice, this book also provides insights from real people—teen addicts and others—who have been affected by substance abuse. Topics covered in this book include:exposure to alcohol and drugs reasons people experiment with addictive substancesphysical and emotional aspects of addictiontreatment optionsrelapsesrecovery The chapters in this book take readers through the process of substance use to substance abuse, from curiosity and experimentation to full-blown addiction and recovery. The chapters feature not only true life stories, but also contain information about how substance abuse affects the body and brain. Appendixes include a list of resources, including web sites, books, and movies that teens will find useful. Designed to give teens the tools for understanding this disorder from various perspectives, this book is a valuable resource for anyone affected by substance abuse.

The United States is perhaps the most culturally diverse nation in the world, and has frequently been called a "melting pot," "tossed salad," or "multicultural society" to reflect that diversity. However, since it's founding, the country has experienced conflicts―many of them violent―due to intolerance of values and views different from those of the majority. Cultural Diversity is a teen guide showing how cultural differences may be at the root of conflicts that crop up daily in high schools, on the job, in the courts, and even within families. In some cases these conflicts are the result of extreme racism, religious bigotry, or outright hatred for a particular group of people. This young adult resource is volume six in a new series entitled It Happened to Me, featuring teen voices. Topics such as prejudice, religious bigotry, racism, gender bias, sexual orientation, scapegoating, and stereotyping are presented with stories about young people who have faced problems and with forthright views from young people who have worked to foster respect for diversity. Along with anecdotes are historical perspectives.Each chapter begins with a quote, usually from a teenager whose words reflect the focus of the chapter. Numerous sidebars provide factual information about the causes of cultural conflicts, how stereotypes are perpetuated, the kinds of discrimination that various groups have suffered, and how hate groups operate. Scattered throughout the book are features that present conflict situations and ask readers: "What do you think?" In addition, readers are challenged to check out factual statements, to read other books that focus on cultural diversity issues, and to take action to instill respect for cultures different from the American mainstream.

The Military and Teens covers the major issues young adults should consider before making a decision to join the armed forces. Although each branch of the military provides print and electronic materials on what it has to offer enlistees, very few YA books take a pro-and-con look at military service. Moreover, commercial military books mostly cover specific wars or give tips on surviving induction and training.From deciding to serve, to what it's like to face death, to being forced to kill, to discrimination in the military, and to life afterwards, this work presents the benefits and downsides of military service. Kathlyn Gay covers the many available choices of careers in the military and points out where to go for more information. Both primary and secondary sources have been used to provide information on young participants in the American Revolutionary War, War of 1812, Civil War, World Wars I & II, as well as the Korean, Vietnam, and Gulf wars. In the final pages of the book, the comprehensive list of available sources of information includes books, magazine articles, and websites for further research. Enhanced by young people sharing their personal experiences as enlistees and as members of military families, The Military and Teens is a useful resource for both teens and those who work with teens to advise them on career choices.

While many people appreciate cultural, social, political, and religious diversity, there are others who feel compelled to express their intolerance for others through cruel words and actions. Their behavior often stems from ignorance and insecurity, and they demonstrate their prejudices by belittling others who are different from them. These narrow-minded individuals attack others based on any number of reasons, including religious beliefs, sexual orientation, cultural background, social standing, or physical appearance. In Bigotry and Intolerance: The Ultimate Teen Guide, Kathlyn Gay looks at the various reasons why people of all age levels and backgrounds feel the need to disparage others. This book also offers help to teens who are the object of fear and hatred by showing them how to combat such behavior. Topics covered in this book include:the meaning of bigotry and intolerance types of bigotry—from religious bigotry to homophobia the difference between bigotry and racismwhat it feels like to be the target of bigotry how to cope with discriminationindividuals and groups that advocate tolerance and appreciation of cultural diversity Aimed at young adults who are interested in fighting bigotry and intolerance, this book will help teens who suffer from the small-mindedness of others. It might also help those who are less tolerant find some common ground with those who are different from them—and lead to a better understanding of how diversity makes for a richer, more interesting world. Featuring commentary from several young adults, Bigotry and Intolerance: The Ultimate Teen Guide will be welcomed by those who want to turn the tide of prejudice and fear in their schools and in their communities.

Social networking is now an entrenched activity for nearly every teen in the country. A recent study showed that nearly 75% of American teens use an online social network, a percentage that continues to rise. Librarians, such as the author herself, are often asked by young adults for help and advice on social networking, but teens also turn to their friends for information, which can be inaccurate or incomplete.Social Networking: The Ultimate Teen Guide helps young adults make the most of their online experience, giving them a complete understanding of social networking while also addressing online safety. Author Jennifer Obee helps teens navigate through the challenging intricacies of social networks, covering such topics as:FacebookYouTubeTwitternetspeakblogsprivacycyberbullyingvideochatsmartphones. With quotes from teenagers about their favorite sites and personal stories, Social Networking is the perfect resource for teens trying to gain a better understanding of the vast online world.

While many people appreciate cultural, social, political, and religious diversity, there are others who feel compelled to express their intolerance for others through cruel words and actions. Their behavior often stems from ignorance and insecurity, and they demonstrate their prejudices by belittling others who are different from them. These narrow-minded individuals attack others based on any number of reasons, including religious beliefs, sexual orientation, cultural background, social standing, or physical appearance. In Bigotry and Intolerance: The Ultimate Teen Guide, Kathlyn Gay looks at the various reasons why people of all age levels and backgrounds feel the need to disparage others. This book also offers help to teens who are the object of fear and hatred by showing them how to combat such behavior. Topics covered in this book include:the meaning of bigotry and intolerance types of bigotry—from religious bigotry to homophobia the difference between bigotry and racismwhat it feels like to be the target of bigotry how to cope with discriminationindividuals and groups that advocate tolerance and appreciation of cultural diversity Aimed at young adults who are interested in fighting bigotry and intolerance, this book will help teens who suffer from the small-mindedness of others. It might also help those who are less tolerant find some common ground with those who are different from them—and lead to a better understanding of how diversity makes for a richer, more interesting world. Featuring commentary from several young adults, Bigotry and Intolerance: The Ultimate Teen Guide will be welcomed by those who want to turn the tide of prejudice and fear in their schools and in their communities.

It has been estimated that as many as 15 million people suffer or will suffer from anorexia and bulimia at some point in their lives. Additional statistics suggest that 25 million more suffer from binge eating and other related behaviors. The overwhelming majority of individuals who suffer from eating disorders are girls and young women between the ages of 12 and 25, but young males are not immune to these addictions—and the statistics grow more alarming every year. Eating disorders affect not only those who suffer from them, but family members and friends who feel powerless to help.In Eating Disorders: The Ultimate Teen Guide, Jessica R. Greene offers hope for the young women and men who have engaged in these self-destructive urges. In this book, Greene examines the causes and varieties of teen eating disorders and offers advice on how to overcome them. The author looks at how eating disorders are defined, how common they are, and how they are tied into behavioral addictions. In addition to explaining how and why certain people suffer from these compulsions, this book looks at: Social and Cultural Pressures High Risk GroupsMyths and Stereotypes Health RepercussionsMethods of PreventionIntervention StrategiesTreatment OptionsRecovery Intended to serve as a comprehensive guide, this book also includes a list of resources for teens and their parents. Drawing on input from experts in the field, as well as real-life stories, Eating Disorders: The Ultimate Teen Guide will help young adults who are struggling with this devastating affliction.

Exclusively written for teenagers and young adults dealing with a wide variety of learning disabilities—including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), dyscalculia, and dyslexia—this accessible resource offers the tools for taking a proactive role in identifying, understanding and overcoming the obstacles facing teens with learning disabilities. Learning Disabilities provides a clear and informative overview of the most common disabilities. Appealing to teenagers with its easy-to-read format and positive tips for success, the book also teaches students how to advocate for themselves, informing them of their rights under law both during the school years and after high school graduation. Assistive technology that can help students improve their learning abilities such as Optical Character Recognition (OCR) systems, screen reading software, books on tape, electronic notebooks, and other tools that aid student learning are covered. The most recent research on brain structure and function, and the role they play in learning disabilities is presented, as well as a step-by-step guide to test reports, so that teens can understand how their disabilities are diagnosed. Gathering information from students, high school guidance counselors, and from medical and other professionals, authors Paquette and Tuttle also show teens they are not alone in their struggles, profiling famous people that also have learning disabilities.

It is difficult enough for teens growing up today to deal with the regular issues arising from family, school, and relationships, regardless of whether they have physical disabilities or not. Add to those problems the extra obstacles that visual, hearing, and physical impairments present some teens, and the road to adulthood just got exponentially more complex.Physical Disabilities: The Ultimate Teen Guide provides a roadmap through these additional tribulations teens with disabilities face by showing the methods, mechanisms, and resources other teens are using to cope with their disabilities. Discussing everything from going away to college to living independently to traveling internationally, this book is filled with stories from active teens who have vision, hearing, and other physical disabilities.Interviews with teens who are meeting the challenges of living with cerebral palsy, spina bifida, Osteosarcoma, amputations, visual impairment, Rellex Sympathetic Dystrophy, paralysis, hearing impairment, and deafness are included along with more than 40 photos of these teens participating in various activities. Author Denise Thornton has organized the book into eight categories: School, Tools and Technology, Transportation and Access, Sports, the Arts, Relationships, Independence, and Advocacy. Each chapter combines the experiences of teens and young adults in all these spheres with up-to-date information on the resources that readers can call on as they follow their own dreams. Teens, parents, teachers, and medical professionals will find this to be a valuable resource.

What does living green mean? For some, it means making a commitment to reduce, reuse, and recycle every day. For others, it also means respecting and conserving our natural resources, so they will be available in the future. In Living Green: The Ultimate Teen Guide, readers learn why protecting the environment is such a crucial undertaking and why and how young adults should take up this important cause.Living Green demonstrates how reckless indifference to our planet’s needs jeopardizes not only plants and animals but the existence of mankind. This volume addresses such concerns as leaving a low carbon footprint, protecting wildlife, saving natural resources, conserving trees and gardens, and fighting for environmental justice. Most importantly, Living Green explores the many ways that teens can make a difference—in their homes, communities, and in the world at large. While some of the teen efforts described here may be familiar, the author also focuses on issues seldom addressed, such as dumping toxic waste on poor and powerless communities. The book includes quotes from green advocates and teens who consider themselves eco-friendly, as well as useful advice that will help young adults embrace a lifestyle that will positively affect generations to come.