Even more teens will be working now that the holiday season is here. However, new research may make parents have second thoughts about allowing their teens to take jobs. They are also more likely to use illegal drugs, engage in other deviant behavior and get insufficient sleep and exercise. In addition, they have less time to spend with their families. According to the research, working has both positive and negative effects.
Work provides lessons about responsibility, punctuality, dealing with people and money management.
It may also increase students' self-esteem, sense of competence, independence and new skills. Work should help students excel in school and encourage their healthy development. The committee urges Congress to give the U.S. Department of Labor authority to limit the number of hours kids under 18 may work during the school year. It suggests too that the Labor Department consider limiting the number of hours students can work per day and regulating the times they start and stop working on school nights. Share your thoughts on our Hot Topics message board .