In any paper revolving around teenagers and their use of ‘mass building’ supplements it is important to note that the use of supplements to build mass and the use of steroids are not mutually exclusive. Many authors of works on body image and steroid use believe that they are inextricably linked. It is debatable as to whether the use of over-the-counter supplements are a ‘gateway’ to the use of more damaging steroids but the overwhelming feeling confirms that the risk is increased when teenagers begin to take supplements.
The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Youth Risk Behaviour Surveillance- United States, reports that the percentage of students using steroids increased to 6,1% by 2002. The common belief that ‘supplements’ are not potentially dangerous has resulted in a limited amount of information about youths (of school-going age) and their ‘supplement use’ habits. As such, the preliminary information in this paper will focus on the prevalence of steroid use among males. The National Centre for Education Statistics estimated that in 2005, of “16,5 million some 5,4% of the public and private school children between” the ages of 14-17 years (660 000 children) had used or were using steroids. In Body Dysmorphic Disorder in Men, Phillips indicates that between 6 and “7% of high school boys have used these drugs” (Phillips: 2001).
Adolescent anabolic steroid use is a nationwide phenomenon with “prevalence rates among high school males [ranging] from 5-11%”, with high school athletes continuing to use these agents to improve their athletic performance and appearance despite the associated risks (Proctor: 1998). In addition, it is reported that school children begin using anabolic steroids before the age of 16 years and up to 86% of these students have no intention to cease their use of these illegal drugs. In light of these statistics, in any attempt to reduce the associated health risks of steroid use/abuse, it is imperative that implementation programmes to that effect are introduced into the school curriculum at the very latest in junior high.
“Performance enhancing drugs” have been around for centuries; the ancient Greeks used “strychnine and hallucinogenic mushrooms” in preparation for the original Olympic Games; years later (1886), the first athlete died from using performance-enhancing drugs (Luciano: 2001, 175)...
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Anabolic-androgenic steroid use
- Effects of anabolic-androgenic steroid use
- Causes of anabolic-androgenic steroid use
- Signs of anabolic-androgenic steroid use
- Supplement use in teenagers
- Supplement side effects and signs
- Creatine
- Ephedrine
- Appetite suppressants
- Prevention strategies
- The parent/teachers' role
- Over-the-counter supplements (a guide)
- Organisations for assistance
- Books/articles/ websites of value
- Appendices
- Appendix A - DSM Substance Dependence Criteria
- Appendix B – Drugs abused by athletes as compiled from underground guides
- Appendix C – Industry Jargon
- Appendix D – Signs of developing dependency
- Appendix E - Mass Building Supplements (SA)
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the use of supplements, including anabolic-androgenic steroids, among teenage males. It examines the prevalence of steroid use, explores the potential risks associated with both steroids and supplements, and investigates the motivations behind their use. The paper also outlines prevention strategies aimed at reducing the incidence of steroid and supplement use among teenagers.
- The prevalence of anabolic-androgenic steroid use among teenage males
- The potential health risks and side effects of anabolic-androgenic steroid use
- The causes and motivations behind anabolic-androgenic steroid use among teenagers
- The role of supplements in the context of steroid use
- Prevention strategies to reduce the incidence of steroid and supplement use among teenagers
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: This chapter sets the stage for the paper by highlighting the intertwined nature of supplement use and steroid use among teenagers. It underscores the significance of addressing this issue, particularly considering the alarming statistics on steroid use among young males.
- Anabolic-androgenic steroid use: This chapter delves into the history of anabolic-androgenic steroids, tracing their origins and development. It examines the legitimate medical uses of these drugs while also highlighting their widespread misuse for physique and performance enhancement.
- Effects of anabolic-androgenic steroid use: This chapter explores the various physiological effects of anabolic-androgenic steroids, focusing on their impact on muscle growth, bone development, and other bodily systems. It also discusses the potential negative health consequences associated with steroid use, including both short-term and long-term effects.
- Causes of anabolic-androgenic steroid use: This chapter examines the factors that contribute to teenage males' use of anabolic-androgenic steroids. It explores motivations such as pressure to conform to societal ideals of masculinity, the desire for athletic success, and the pursuit of physical perfection.
- Signs of anabolic-androgenic steroid use: This chapter provides a practical guide to recognizing the signs of anabolic-androgenic steroid use. It describes both physical and behavioral indicators that may suggest steroid abuse, empowering parents, teachers, and other concerned individuals to identify potential cases of steroid use.
- Supplement use in teenagers: This chapter investigates the widespread use of supplements among teenagers, exploring the different types of supplements available and their purported benefits. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing that supplements are not without risk and that their use should be approached with caution.
- Supplement side effects and signs: This chapter focuses on the potential side effects of commonly used supplements, including creatine, ephedrine, and appetite suppressants. It provides information about the risks associated with these supplements, particularly for teenagers, and highlights the importance of seeking professional advice before using any supplements.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The primary keywords and focus topics of this paper include anabolic-androgenic steroids, supplement use, teenage males, health risks, prevention strategies, and the role of parents and educators in addressing this issue. The paper also examines the social and psychological factors influencing the use of steroids and supplements among teenagers. Key terms such as body image, athletic performance, and societal expectations are discussed in the context of understanding the motivations behind steroid and supplement use.
- Quote paper
- Gary Elliott (Author), 2010, Supplement and steroid use among male teenagers, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/275079
