HCHY List: Integrity

[Silbert, Diedra]

Colleen,
A faculty friend of mine recommended the book Generation Me by Jean Twenge in response to your thoughts.  I'm not familiar with it.  She said it gives a broader sense of these challenges and some ideas for coping.
Diedra Silbert
Prevention and Mentoring Supervisor
Coconino County Juvenile Court Services
1001 E. Sawmill Rd.
Flagstaff, AZ  86001
(928) 226-5431
dsilbert at courts.az.gov
From: hchylist-bounces at lists.search-institute.org [mailto:hchylist-bounces at lists.search-institute.org] On Behalf Of Colleen Mahoney
Sent: Friday, March 27, 2009 4:37 PM
To: Silbert, Diedra
Cc: Healthy Communities Healthy Youth
Subject: HCHY List: Integrity

Hi Everyone!

I know you haven't heard from me for awhile.  I always come back to you when I am struggling with something! ;)  That's because I trust you and appreciate your input.

Those of you who know me, know that I am in touch with today's generation.  You know that I am an advocate of youth as well as young adults.

This semester I am teaching an undergraduate research class of 153 undergraduate seniors in allied health majors.  I am appalled at the number of them that feel entitled, are dishonest, cheat, etc.  There are some that are great but way too many have tried to take advantage of the size of the class and simply don't seem to think twice about lying, cheating, being rude etc.  My expectations were clearly laid out.  I take my role very seriously and go out of my way to provide a variety of learning opportunities and creative ways of doing so.  I challenge them but am also very fair and supportive.  They are well aware (at least at this point) that I am not a naive individual, nor one that is going to ignore irresponsible behavior.

I am aware that these are not unique concerns in higher education today.  I also am aware of the various speculations as to why students behave this way.  I am very concerned about what that means for them and their (and our) futures.  And, unfortunately, I view the reinforcement of such behaviors as I observe the environment my 17 year old son is growing up in (especially in sports).

As we near the end of the semester I feel a need to share my perceptions and concerns.  It's not my nature to let these things go.  I feel a responsibility.  At the same time, what is it I say and how do I say it?!  Obviously I would want to begin by reinforcing those that have been responsible and shown character, respect, and integrity.

As a side note...I must add an interesting observation...many of the young women are of special concern.

Any input would be appreciated! Thanks!  Colleen Mahoney




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