Time spent at college is seen as one of the most exciting periods of a person’s life. However, this period is also associated with deviant behavior among freshman who are exposed to a variety of issues. In the first place, they may be overloaded by academic tasks. At the same time, this period is seen as the first year of freedom and, hence, freshmen may try to have new experiences but such inclinations tend to result in such issues as pregnancy, diseases, fights, which, in their turn, lead to expulsion.
Freshmen can be regarded as the most vulnerable group of students as they are not experienced enough to develop proper behavioral patterns. More so, they deem that their new status is their chance to be truly free and totally responsible for their behavior though they often prove to be absolutely irresponsible (Hickson & Roebuck, 2009). Ford and Schroeder (2009) stress that the first year in college is also a period when students try illicit drugs, which is young people’s response to considerable academic load and peer pressure. Young people are often unable to control themselves and act violently. Furthermore, per pressure and neglect of major rules makes freshmen enter sexual intercourse without paying attention to the consequences.
I work at a junior college and I witness these deviant behaviors each day. I also understand that young people get into more trouble they can possibly handle and they need assistance. Admittedly, we are responsible for providing proper conditions for our students but we also have to guide them and help them cope with (or avoid) a variety of issues. We have to help freshman obtain the necessary experience to make them ready for further load in following years.
In conclusion, it is necessary to note that deviant behavior among freshmen is a serious problem which has to be handled. This behavior often leads to disease, pregnancy and fights that results in expulsion. This is a serious issue which has to be handled to ensure that young people will be able to obtain higher education and will also land a well-paid job.
Reference List
Ford, J.A., & Schroeder, R.D. (2009). Academic strain and non-medical use of prescription stimulants among college students. Deviant Behavior, 30(1), 26-53.
Hickson, M., & Roebuck, J.B. (2009). Deviance and crime in colleges and universities: What goes on in the halls of Ivy. Springfield, IL: Charles C Thomas Publisher.