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Your College Life Online - Page 2 |
Why do college students do embarrassing, stupid, risky or degrading things during spring break? - Pent-up demand for relaxation. They’re tired of the routine and rigor of classes. They worked hard and want to feel rewarded, or they are bored with school and want some fun. They are seeking freedom from thinking, so anything involving immediate gratification is very appealing.
- Social norms. The media and their peers give young people the impression that everyone else is doing wild stuff during college, so they feel less cool if they don’t participate.
- The adolescent brain. Adolescent and young adult brains are not fully developed. Studies show that the prefrontal cortex, which regulates impulses, emotions and rational decision making, develops later than originally thought — it probably remains immature into the mid-20s.
- Alcohol. Alcohol suppresses the reasoning centers of the brain, loosens impulse control and heightens raw emotions. Both males and females are more likely to behave badly and have regrets after drinking. Women are sometimes plied with free drinks as an incentive to get them to attend clubs and parties, and to encourage them to engage in sexually provocative behavior.
- Crowd behavior and peer pressure. Kids in crowds are more likely to egg others on to do degrading or risky things, especially when alcohol is involved.
- Sleep deprivation. College students are often sleep-deprived. This interferes with their ability to use good judgment.
- Being away from home. Teens (and adults) rationalize that outrageous acts don’t count if they aren’t on home turf. The lack of parental supervision and hometown friends makes daring behavior more enticing. They buy into the “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas” mentality.
Next: Why do college students post so much information, including embarrassing photos and stories about themselves or others on the Internet?
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