We hear in the news quite frequently that sports stars were found guilty of using this or that drug. That they tried to enhance their performance through drugs to make themselves better players. With all of our teens playing sports out there, seeing this happen can only lead to one thing: curiosity. They might think that if their favorite player used it why shouldn't they? Or, if it didn't hurt them then why can't I use it? Teens are often unaware to the effects of these so called performance enhancing drugs. The only thing they may see is that it made them a better player or helped them gain an edge against all the other players. Some teens use performance enhancers to be less insecure about their bodies. Also, They might use them to try and gain muscle mass quickly. There are different drugs that a teen player may experiment with first. Such things as Creatine, which can be bought by anyone in stores. Although that one is not deemed illegal, it can still lead to a person using a more potent substance. Anabolic Steroids are one of the more popular drugs that are used illegally among athletes. Football players will most likely use steroids to gain muscle and strength. Although they are gaining muscle and strength, there are things that lead to health problems that they may not realize at the time of taking the drug.
Parents could quite possibly be the only person to monitor a teens use of performance enhancing drugs. They should watch out for signs of drug misuse. There are also precautionary methods they can take to ensure that their teens are not using any illegal drugs. One of the major things to look for is behavioral changes. If their kids play sports and are acting out of character they can do a couple of things to find out exactly what is going on in their teens life. Another very important thing to watch out for is what exactly they purchase and why. Check ingredients of any over the counter drugs they may buy and keeping an eye on what they have such as vials or any other drug paraphernalia. A parent should be very involved in the actual sporting events and games. They should attend and know what is going on with the team and the coaching staff. Getting involved is the best thing that a parent can do in attempt to discourage illegal drug use.
Teens need to realize the risks in using illegal drugs as an advancement in sports. When these teens begin to use at such a young age they might not realize what they are doing or just not think twice about their actions. They may not understand that what they are doing to their body is not good and the long term effects of the drug are not good. The drugs they use in high school may inhibit them from getting into a college of their choice. It could also affect them in college if they begin to use to much and coaches and staff find out about the problem. Teens need to see that hard work and determination are the right way about advancing in their sport and to not chemically alter their bodies in hopes to get ahead of the competition.
References:
Mayo Clinic Staff, . "Performance-enhancing drugs and teen athletes." http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/performance-enhancing-drugs/SM00045. Mayo Clinic, 22122010. Web. 22 Feb 2011.
Great job. You offered some really good tips for parents and being the mother of a teen athlete, I truly appreciate this type of information.
ReplyDeleteGrowing up through high school, and with my fiance's older brothers, I saw use of sport enhancement drugs. They are not only illegal, but I have seen them completely destroy a family, in which the user became very sick and unhealthy for a small time period. I think this is a great topic and you made a great time and offered some good pointers.
ReplyDeleteEric, this is a major issue. The advice you give to parents is great. I would love to hear more tips or advice from you on what teens should be aware of. In other words, what might prevent them from making a decision like some of these athletes. It's a good start, and I look forward to what you come up with in the future.
ReplyDeleteI think that education is the way to start. Starting at a young age, all kids involved in sports should be made aware of the consequences of using these enhancement drugs both physically and emotionally. Plus, anyone using these drugs should not be allowed to participate in any sports. It wouldn't take long to get the message out.
ReplyDeleteGood job on the information you provided. If my children were old enough and played sports I'd definately have them sit down and read this. I played basketball for 16 years, all through school and AAU as well and not one person ever spoke on this topic. Very informational.
ReplyDeleteAlison
Thanks guys. I was planning on going in a different direction after this post but after getting all the feedback I may just continue this one and go even further into research. Thanks a lot!
ReplyDeleteEric Cogovan
Do what makes you happy, we enjoy you reading and back you up with whatever your topic is. Always good to hear the way other's write. It gives inspiration to others.
ReplyDeleteAli
Eric I enjoyed the topic you chose to speak about in your blog. Teens using drugs to enhance their skills is a huge issue that needs to be address and hopefully stopped as quickly as possible. I also agree with the parental advice that you gave. I have played sports since I was young and having that support from your parents does make a difference. Great work!
ReplyDeleteEric,
ReplyDeleteI don't have kids and am not really into sports, but this is a great topic. If there were particular sports stars who have suffered negative effects from these drugs, they would, unfortunely, be a good example of what could happen. If teens could see what could happen, they may be less likely to try it.
Samantha