
Finding Room for Relationships
DANIEL BANIN, PIEDMONT, CALIFORNIA
In this Article I explore the connection between casual hookups and the likelihood of them turning into meaningful relationships. While the overall teenage relationship rate is reported as 35%, I believe that the numbers at my school(Piedmont High School) are lower. Factors such as the emphasis on higher education, societal pressure, and the perception that relationships are a waste of time contribute to this trend. Additionally, social media plays a role in fostering a desire for idealized relationships, leading to rushed and potentially negative experiences. Some students believe that high school relationships can be positive for personal growth, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a sense of self and not succumbing to peer pressure. However, many students also express regret over getting into unintentional relationships or feeling unable to say no. I hope for a more comprehensive educational approach that includes social-emotional learning and interpersonal skills to better prepare students for healthy relationships. I wonder if this issue is specific to my school or if it extends to teenagers nationwide and worldwide.
