Helpline: Teen Issues and Answers

With body piercing and tattooing becoming more popular and mainstream, many teens may think about engaging in these forms of body modification. An excellent resource for young people pondering a piercing or tattoo, this title presents some of the pros and cons they should consider. In an honest and engaging manner, the author presents important information teens need to protect their health, including how to identify a reputable studio, what to expect from the procedures, and how to do proper aftercare. Legal, social, and familial issues are explored, too, including the importance of discussing the decision with their parents and choosing tattoos or piercings they can live with throughout adulthood.

It is estimated that almost 1.3 million women and girls in the United States are raped each year. Fifty-four percent of rapes go unreported, and 97 percent of rapists are never incarcerated for their crimes. This guide to coping with rape and sexual assault takes readers by the hand and guides them through the survival process, whether the reader is a victim or the friend of a victim. Beginning with what to expect when reporting the crime and ending with becoming an activist in order to help others, this guide is a must-read for any individual who needs information and support.

More than half of adolescents and teens have been bullied online, and the problem continues to grow, often with deadly consequences. In a modern world where teens rely heavily on technology in order to communicate, cyberbullying has become a very real issue. This guide to coping with cyberbullying helps readers define the issue and then teaches them valuable ways to effectively deal with a bully, both personally and within the law. It is a must-read for anyone who feels he or she is a victim of cyberbullying.

Self-injury and cutting refers to harming one's own body on purpose, a troubling problem that tends to begin in the teen or early adult years. Also known by several other terms, including "self-harm" and "self-mutilation," the behavior is often used as an outlet to get temporary relief from tormenting emotions. Written by a medical doctor, this book offers honest information about self-injury, who it tends to affect, and possible reasons people self-injure. The author is straightforward, yet sympathetic and supportive, in detailing the dangers of the behavior and how teens can help themselves or others to stop. Myths and facts, questions for a therapist, and organizations to contact for further information are helpful features.

Data from a July 2011 study by the Pew Internet and American Life Project showed that 95 percent of teens were online and 80 percent used social networking sites. No matter what platform they use, Web site they visit, or device they own, it's important th