SAGE Journal Articles

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Journal Article 1: Venable, S. F. (1997). Adolescent rites of passage: An experiential modelThe Journal of Experiential Education, 20, 6–13. https://doi.org/10.1177/105382599702000102

Abstract: The purpose of this article is to define and describe healthy developmental changes which can be nurtured and enhanced in adolescents through an experiential program based on a rite of passage model. The origins and context of adolescence as a cultural phenomenon are discussed. Also, rites of passage are defined and illustrated and placed in a contextual framework conducive for use with teenagers. The application of a rite of passage designed to usher teens from adolescence to adulthood as used by the author during a backpacking experience is discussed.

Journal Article 2: Heatherton, T. F., & Sargent, J. D. (2009). Does watching smoking in movies promote teenage smoking? Current Directions in Psychological Science, 18, 63–67. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-8721.2009.01610.x

Abstract: Compared to adolescents with low exposure to smoking in movies, those with high exposure are about three times as likely to try smoking or become smokers. We have observed this effect in nationally representative samples using cross-sectional and longitudinal designs. This effect remains statistically significant after controlling for numerous other traditional risk factors, such as personality, parenting style, and sociodemographics. Indeed, the movie-smoking exposure effect on adolescent smoking initiation is greatest among those traditionally considered at lower risk for smoking, such as those low in sensation seeking and those whose parents do not smoke. In this article, we consider possible moderators and mediators of this important media effect as well as health-policy implications. The take-home message is that eliminating smoking in movies may prevent a substantial number of adolescents from smoking.