A Legislator Has Introduced a Bill That Would Allow Adolescents

question 6

Essay

A legislator has introduced a bill that would allow adolescents in her state to hold after-school jobs, but that would limit the number of hours that adolescents can work in such jobs to 10 hours per week or fewer. There is a group in the legislature who oppose the bill: they believe that adolescents should be allowed to hold after-school jobs with no restrictions placed on hours worked per week, and that adolescents should work at least 20 hours every week in order to build character. Based on what you know about employment and adolescent development, which of these positions would you support? Why do you support this position over the other? Which type of jobs do you think would help adolescents feel more mature, competent, and dependable?

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Definitions:

Bonding

The process of developing a close emotional relationship between parents and their newborn, or between individuals and animals.

Sexual Spontaneity

The quality of being impulsive or uninhibited in sexual activities, often contributing to a more fulfilling sexual experience.

Hormone-based Contraceptives

Birth control methods that rely on hormonal manipulation to prevent pregnancy, including pills, patches, injections, and implants.

Intimate Couples

Partners in a personal and deeply connected relationship that often involves physical and emotional closeness.