Children, Adolescents, and Substance Abuse in the Media

Instructions:
Step Three: Write the paper. Begin the paper with an introduction that summarizes the main findings of the
AAP article and previews what will be covered in the coming pages. Next, compare and contrast the portrayal
of substance use found in the media with the information learned about that substance in the class and course
readings. What messages about the substance are being portrayed? How accurate are those messages
relative to the actual data on substance use? Be sure to cite the course readings as needed.
Continue by comparing and contrasting the portrayal of substance use found in the media with the criticism of
media portrayals found in the AAP paper. Does the media example match their arguments or contradict them?
What links and connections can be made? Be sure to cite the article as needed.
Next, draw some conclusions about the portrayal of substance use found in the media, addressing the
following: What are the implications of this type of portrayal? What messages are being sent and to whom? Are
those messages an accurate representation of the use of this substance? Should media portrayals be required
to be accurate in their depictions of use, showing both positive and negative consequences?
Finally, review the guidelines suggested by the AAP at the end of their policy statement and address the
following: Although directed specifically at pediatricians, which of those recommendations is most important?
Why? Are these recommendations necessary? If followed, will they be effective in addressing the concerns
raised earlier in the article? Be sure to cite sources as needed.
Step Four:
The required length of this paper is 11 pages, plus a required a cover page and a reference list. Papers must
comply with APA formatting rules, including font size and margins, and must have a scholarly focus and tone.
Quoting of published material and use of the first-person “I” are not permitted and will result in point loss. All
source material must be paraphrased into your own words and cited appropriately.