In the early 90s, British television had a series of discussions

In the early 90s, British television had a series of discussions on the problems of teenagers in a programme called Crosstalk. Young people shared their opinions on what it means to be young.
1) Which of these teenagers thinks that being young
+ brings a lot of serious problems?
+ allows you to do exciting and wonderful things?
+ is a kind of duty and makes you feel responsible for what you do? (listening/reading for the main idea)
John McCarthy, 17
Teenagers today have a lot more to worry about than their parents ever did. The world is becoming a very scary place. Violence, teen pregnancy, and AIDS cases are increasing. More and more teens are turning to drugs and alcohol.
Im sure that almost every teenager will at one time or another have an experience with drugs, alcohol or sex. These things combined with personal problems and mates influence make being a teenager very difficult. I dont have a single friend who has never had a drink of alcohol. Some of them dont drink at all now, but some do. It seems to me that adults are generally quite indifferent to what their children do. Once you reach the age of sixteen or seventeen, your parents think you are old enough to decide for yourself and let you do what you want.
Estelle Hammersley, 16
Its true that there are so many problems facing teens today. I go to an all-girls private school which makes my school life easier. I фокус more attention on doing my work than on impressing a cute guy. But when I go out on weekends there is a lot of pressure to drink and smoke. There are no teen clubs close to where I live so weekend activities are limited. у My friends and I dont do anything exciting, but we usually have fun just being around each other. We usually talk about humorous things. On the other хэнд, we also talk about serious things like abortion, sex, and politics. My friends and I try to help each other if we can, because a lot of the time, being a teenager isnt fun. Its a chore (duty). You have to go to school and your parents want you to get good grades, which is hard enough in itself, and you have to deal with your own problems too.
Bart Naik, 16
Where I live teenagers have few dangers, but even in my town kids can get alcohol easily. I personally do not drink alcohol. I dont think drinking is exciting. But I know some guys who do. My view is that if they want to, then they can - its their life, they are free to decide and nobody can forbid them to do what they want.
The people I hang out (слоняться) with dont really put any pressure (оказывать давление) on me or anyone else. Dating is not a big deal (not so important). We usually go out with a bunch (group) of friends, both girls and boys.
Social events such as discos and parties are a very popular conversation topic among teenagers. At school, politics are discussed quite a lot but along with this there are conversations about boyfriends, girlfriends, and plans for the weekend ahead. I feel also that the majority of boys are football-mad and the girls are very conscious of (crazy about) their appearance and clothes. Being a teenager is great fun. Take it easy.