Teens have mixed views on value of marriage

By Staff Writer

Adolescents who do not hold strong family values may turn to alcohol and drugs to cope with their domestic issues and avoid relationships. On the other hand, teens who are unhealthily co-dependent on other individuals may also be at risk of developing addiction problems.

StafeofLife.com - which challenges teens to write about a variety of important topics, such as stress, money and education - recently launched an essay contest about marriage. By asking children about their views of marriage, the organization aims to gain a better understanding of how teens feel about commitment, love and responsibility.

More than 3,440 students have already submitted entries into the contest. One teen wrote that a loving marriage can make someone's life feel complete and bring life-long happiness to two individuals. On the other end of the spectrum, one adolescent admitted that he never believed in the institution of marriage. He asked who in the world would actually want to spend their entire life with another person, and vice versa.

A child's view on marriage may indicate deeper underlying problems such as low self-esteem, trust issues or even depression. Adolescents who struggle with any of these problems may benefit from wilderness therapy programs, which aim to provide help for troubled teens.