Tuesday, April 27, 2010

So...why is this bad?

I was listening to public radio this morning, the discussion was about drinking, driving and teens during the prom season. Changes to the laws have been improving the likelihood the teens survive to their twenties and don't wrap themselves around light posts and 70 mph.

So...they were talking about this program that demonstrates a huge crash with serious injuries outside the schools. One of the shows participants said, "We aren't trying to scare anyone..."

My question to this..."Why the hell not?" What's wrong with kids being scared of drunk driving? I'm scared of drink driving. I'm 40. I say scare the shit out of them. Fear is a very powerful and useful thing. Fear's purpose is to keep us alive. I like alive. Alive > dead.

8 comments:

StB said...

Schools are run by unions that are politicially correct and are more concerned about not hurting anyone's feelings than they are educating the kids. This is a feel good moment for teachers and administators, it isn't for the kids.

Mark said...

I heard the exact same piece this morning and seriously, I'm going to waive the BS flag on this one. Of course they are trying to scare the shit out of the kids and rightfully so. They are reenacting a fatal (or near fatal) car accident right in front of the school with REAL EMTs and even a helicopter responding which will actually take people way. This for shock and awe, pure and simple. The talking heads can say what they want ...

Mark said...

Oh, and the guy that said that was the principal.

The Father of Five said...

I hope someone scares the $%$%# outta my kids before they start driving...

Although not the same message as the "drunk driving" issue - it is just as important to teen drivers (who feel they are invincible)... If you have not already - PLEASE consider joining the FaceBook page for "Click2Live" - a very old friend of mine lost his teenaged daughter due to not wearing a seatbelt.

Click2Live

seashore subjects said...

Of course they are after fear (but don't want to say that) It's not pop art - it's a public service announcement and it is scary! So, You have a hearty "hear-hear" from me.

Momo Fali said...

Absolutely! If scaring them works, then that's what needs to be done.

Mrs4444 said...

I think the idea is a noble one, but I doubt the impact of such programs at the high school level (unless maybe if they're carried out right before prom.) I know of a 17-year-old who saw one of these and still decided to take risks. (He lost.)

OhCaptain said...

Mrs4444 - I think this was done the week of prom. Most high school boys think they are indestructible. Fear of being harmed doesn't kick in until you are about 25.