Why Are Teenagers Turning Away From Religion ,causes And Effect Social Studies S.b.a?

I think that would depend on the teenager. Parents who force their children to go to church are probably less likely to have kids that don't believe in God. But I am almost fifteen and I just recently read the Bible and that didn't necessarily convince me that there was a God. I've never been had religion forced upon me so I can be a free thinker. If I wanted to go to church, it would be supported. But alas, I do not.
Personally, I think it has a lot to do with kids needing to have physical proof. I mean, you can't see magic, dragons, aliens or fairies so a lot of people don't believe in them and to some, you can't see God, so they don't believe in him.
It really has a lot to do with opinion and whether or not you feel "faith." I know a lot of me not believing in God is that I don't feel "faith" so I don't really know for sure he's up there. I can't just make faith up so I just chose to let things happen as they do. And I don't believe that you should try to make people believe in something they don't feel they need to. I think it's cruel. But, this is just my opinion.
I just kind of wanted to give you a perspective from someone who doesn't believe in God since I saw the only answers you had were ones from those who do. In the end, it's the individual's choice whether or not they chose to belive in God. I don't think teenagers as a whole are turning away from religion but I bet a lot more teenagers deny God now adays than they did even ten years ago.
Hopefully my perspective has helped you.

Teenagers have an aversion to religion in our times because we are living in times where it is hard to convince the young ones of the superstitious fairy tales that our antecedents have believed in. Since the foundation of all ethics and morality typically observed or considered constructive to maintain the cohesion of the fabric of society is based on religion this may at times even lead to delinquent or deviant behavior as people simply do not seem to believe in God anymore. Also, there's a lot that teenagers are exposed to these days, in books, the internet or television which is simply not effective or adequate enough to promote a belief in a God. The times we live in have seen marvels of science that an ancient could possibly may not have imagined. The cause for this is also that parents have little time for their children as most children come from families where both of the parents are busy in their own job with little time for them.

I'm a teenager and I assure you that I am NOT turning away from religion.I read the Bible daily, go to Mass weekly and love and serve and worship God. I am always faithful to Him..But I have noticed that some people of my age do not care so much about their faith..most of my.... friends.. don't go to church and some have completely forgotten the true meaning of Christmas and Easter!This is saddening but the only thing I can do is try to spread the Word of God.sometimes people don't listen but I will always continue to spread His word..so in short answer to your question,some teenagers may be turning away from Religion,but its definitely not all of them, and I am trying my best to bring back the ones who have turned away.Pray for them.God Bless you.

Teenagers are still trying to find their identity and anything that get their attention more such as the media and worldly things they tend to gravitate to it. Religion come like a competition now. These religious leaders focus on getting people to join the religion and when they do,they leave them alone. Religious leaders don't spend enough time with youth, they need to have special programs and entertainment for the youth.

I'm a teenager and I tell you I'm definetly not turning away from religion. But as justice14 has said, I have noticed that many teenagers are turning away from religion they just simply don't believe in anything or anyone, they don't even bother to read the bible or attend  church. They seem to think there's something better out there in the world, other than God.
But as justice14 said, its not all of them, I strongly belive in God and I know other teenagers who go to my church who are also not turning to religion.
I hope this has helped you.

The teenagers are turning away from the religion because they are more busy in other works and no one is helping them to understand there religion.

I'm a 15 year old teenager, and I've had my parents drag me to church every sunday, and I heard the stories, and even went as far as having my first confession. But one day it clicked, and I figured out that I didnt actually beieve any of this and was just letting it all wash over me. Being rational, I figured that what I have seen and experienced so far does not even hint that there is a god, and if there are any believers out there, then feel free to state the reason why you believe, what have you seen or experienced that has made you believe?

I'm part of a growing number of young people who not only don't belive, but have stopped believing. Most teenagers don't believe since they do not see why, and how to believe in christianity, or any other religion. I know it is impossible to disprove the existence of god, but nevertheless, that doesnt mean he must exist.

People take up the religion which is taught to them, and since there are more people turning away, it means that in a generation there will be more people to not take their children to church. It will continue this way, and religion will peobably die out. Will humanity delve into chaos? No, we'll have the same moral values, and the reasons for wars will shift from the excuse of religion to greed.

Teenagers are susceptible to vices such as alcohol, drugs, sex, and others that sometimes drive them to commit crimes. Peer pressure is another thing, teenagers find difficult to get rid of. Hence, these young people turn away from God because they are pre-occupied with so many things. I believe this is where families and parents, especially, should enter into the picture. Parents/families should guide, monitor, maintains communications with our kids and lead them to the right path.

Dear...suprxsydni,
I am a Christian, fifteen years old, and a missionary kid to Africa. I am also a lot of other things, but ostensibly those aren't necessary.
I don't know what your name is, how old you are, or whether or not you like math ;), but I know Jesus loves you...enough to die for you.
This isn't a track, or anything, just a love letter from one of God's daughters.
I want to tell you a story...
A little while ago, I was in nowheresvill with my family (not an unusually circumstance). We were there with a team from America, helping them with our knowledge of the culture and language. My youngest sister, whom is six, was sitting on a small stone, playing with a sticker-littered hat when a young boy asked her if she was a Christian. She darted her eyes to our mother, and then shrugged. I focused my gaze on her, and wished silently that I would open my mouth to say something, anything, but nothing came out.
A few days latter, I was walking with my mom and she told me my little sister became a Christian latter the day that little boy questioned her. I was happy. In fact, I was more then happy. I almost shouted, which would be a very strange thing for me.
My little sister, out in the bushlands where there are hundreds of lost and lonely souls, became a Christian. She trusted that Jesus died for her, that she could do nothing to save herself, with what you call 'faith'.
I liked how you described how some people don't believe in God, all that about dragons, fairies, and magic. It is true, this human way of viewing it does seem correct. But what about the wind? Do you think the wind is not real because you can't see it? Of course you would say no, I mean, you feel it...don't you? Duh, what kind of question is that?
I feel God. He sends me rainbows when I feel alone. He warms my heart, putting the pieces back together when it breaks. And he speaks to me.
Now I have a question for you. And no, this isn't a track.
If we weren't put here by God, what are we here for? Why is earth the only planet inhabited by man, by life? Why do you wake up every morning, pull on a some clothes absentmindedly, and head to school, or work?
I have an answer, though it is probably different then yours. I wake up every morning, do my school with a grunt at math, and then head out into the day, to serve God. He put me here. He is real. So real. (and SO up there, watching you)
In fact, this life is only about Him, to serve Him, to worship Him, to glorify Him for every breath and every happy moment you receive.
So, suprxsydni, I hope you will find Him, or stop running away...and let Him catch up to you.
I'll be praying for you.
Ps. Andrew12, sorry, can't say I have an answer for your question ...
=)

Yes!

As someone who recently came out of my teen years (I'm nearly 22) and
who doesn't identify with any religion, it was all about the
observations I made and how it (didn't) fit my personal beliefs.

It has
nothing to do with what the TV or the internet is telling me or my
peers. I was raised in a church. I have no problem with the concept of
religion, my issue is mostly with organized religion. I think
Christianity has a good message that gets trashed by those trying to
interpret it.

Many of us see the church as homophobic, xenophobic, sexist, and
hypocritical. I do no wish to be affiliated with an organization that
thinks that way. We, Gen Y, tend to be spiritual but not necessarily
slap a name on it or practice nondenominational spirituality.
Unfortunately, it is also true that many leaders within organized
religion fail to live by their own rules and regulations. Many of us are
turned off by the idea of politics and religion mixing. Gen Y tends to
be liberal and many people see conservativeness of the church not
matching their beliefs, so they aren't interested.

On  a personal level, I simply feel like I understand more about how the
world works scientifically and culturally and do not believe in many of
the supernatural elements of the church.

Because of the lack of parent advise

Yes and no. Most religious teens are outcasts therefore they can't really bring a trend into this generation other teens aren't religious because they don't see any value in religion since their parents implement it and most of them want to be rebellious

As someone who recently came out of my teen years (I'm nearly 22) and who doesn't identify with any religion, it has nothing to do with what the TV or the internet is telling me or my peers. If anything it is from observations we have made; this is a conclusion we have come to on our own. I was raised in a church. I have no problem with the concept of religion, my issue is mostly with organized religion. I think Christianity has a good message that gets trashed by those trying to interpret it.

Many of us see the church as homophobic, xenophobic, sexist, and hypocritical. I do no wish to be affiliated with an organization that thinks that way. We, Gen Y, tend to be spiritual but not necessarily slap a name on it or practice nondenominational spirituality. Unfortunately, it is also true that many leaders within organized religion fail to live by their own rules and regulations. Many of us are turned off by the idea of politics and religion mixing. Gen Y tends to be liberal and many people see conservativeness of the church not matching their beliefs, so they aren't interested.

I'm afraid that quite a few of them are.There is nothing we can do.It upsets me and I try my level best to bring them back to God, but they just don't care and whatever I say, they do not listen.HOWEVER, it is NOT all teenagers.There are loads of teens out there who are very spiritual and love God with all their hearts, and who would never dream of turning away from religion.so, although there are some who turn away, it is NOT, and never will be, all of them.To any teenagers out there suffering religious persecution-BE A PIONEER!!!

Because peer pressure set in. They are not interesting beening in the church anymore. Sometimes their focus is taking off God because of the worldly things.

A lot of them are. Maybe its because puberty I don't know I got a few before I'm a teen.

If it is forced upon them and if the message is delivered by screaming hellfire and damnation, it will scare them away.  Bad experiences at church can turn them away.  They have more interesting things (to them) to occupy their time.

Yes it has everything to do with teenagers not having a relationship with God because if they did God would lead them and show them what he wants them to do and what is their purpose in  life!!

I am a multireligioso I belive in multiple religions and practice each of them on their special days! So IMO most tenagers don't run or turn away from religion they just don't understand it...

This is for the person who mentioned that they needed proof to believe in God. I was just the same way,I needed to see something or feel something to know that God was there ...ive read many books and religious material from different religious backgrounds. What I have found is that Hinduism makes you feel like God is there...it is the oldest religion that there is...no one knows the origin- its teachings consist of the worlds oldest books and the world's first language. It is a belief that Jesus went to India for thirty years of his life to study these scriptures since there is no record of his life for thirty years of him in the bible. Feeling something through religion comes when you meditate. Just sit for fifteen minutes and do nothing - think of nothing- just listen to your breath- you'll feel the energy flowing thru your heart. Hinduism also teaches that there is the mind heart and being. Only the mind is prejudice, the heart is pure and blind since the heart never thinks, it doesnt have a condition, its never black or white or latino or desi. Hinduism teaches you how to channel your energy from your heart throughout your body then it becomes one being. Hinduism also appealed to because of Karma. I put all my belief in Karma. Living through your heart, can be achieved through meditation and yoga-all  traditions passed down through millions of years before there was Jesus or the Torah or Muhammad. Its your choice... Educate yourself...be widely read THEN MAKE YOUR CHOICE.

Because they want to do the COOL thing! Believing in something like this is not cool to them.... Also religion goes back to the old days when the "old" people used to worship. Since they know this they turn away from anything old....this stops them right in their tracks on the path to religion

I don't think teenagers are turning away from religion, I don't think it is being taught in the households anymore parents do not go to church that don't take their children, so the children don't know anything about religion, you have to be introduced to it when you are young and when you are of age you make the choice as to what you wish to do, but how can you turn away from something you know nothing about, therefore if children or young people are turning away it also means that those before them have also turn away, because they never introduced them to it in the first place, " The Apple Does Not Fall Far From The Tree"......the best to you

Yes they are .teenagers are doing drugs and forgetting god .good luck

I believe there could be a number of reasons why teenagers would "turn away" from religion. Perhaps they do see religion as "uncool" or outdated. Or maybe it is because of what they learn in school and perceive themselves as "smarter." However, I think a more likely explanation is that they are going through a time of transition and development. In some cases, this could be outright rebellion. In others, It could merely be that they are learning to think and reason for themselves. I believe that it is good to question your faith, as it presents a challenge. There are a few possible outcomes to questioning their faith. Either their faith will become stronger and more defined, they will re-evaluate and make changes to what they believe, or they will develop a flexible and open mind capable of seeing things from different angles.

With the education received by most students today and the advances in science it isn't logical to believe in any religion.  Religion teaches people to live by set a of rules that were created hundreds and in some cases thousands of years ago, and on the most part these rules are irrelevant in today's society. We live in a society that tries to have a basis on fact and truth, for example our justice systems rely on hard facts and evidence to support such facts, science is similar, a scientist will come up with a theory and then set out to prove that theory, using evidence deducted from experiments. Why then should we let a book written 2000 years ago, with no basis in fact and no evidence to support its claims dictate to us what we can eat or wear, or that we should refuse life saving surgery because it includes blood taken from another human being. It isn't logical.

I also find that nearly all, if not all religions promote peace, why then are we a world in conflict. Why do I hear daily about Christians publicly condemning homosexuals to hell, or Muslims attacking girls who simply wish to be educated, I understand that these are extremists on both sides, but why? Let each person live their life according to their wishes and if that doesn't agree with your religion, then so what, they aren't hurting you or your religion. If I choose to live without religion why should that bother someone who chooses religion, it doesn't make sense.

I believe teenagers and adults alike are turning from religion for two main reasons, because of the advancements in science and the new discoveries taking place daily and because of the conflict and strife religion seems to cause world wide.

I am a 16 year old and I think its best if we as teens stop following friends and just go with what we know best.  I have a reason for believing in God because he saved my life more than once so I have to thank him.  I have seen his miracle and I've experienced his presence so you can see where I'm coming from. If I believe and you don't,  I think you might need to look back and see where you're coming from. 

Look at it this way. When ever you want something and you ask your parents for it - then who you think provides it.  Its not them, nor their bosses nor the head of their businesses.  It's GOD  - so people stop being delinquent and stupid.  Just think first before you say a thing because if it wasn't for GOD and his son JESUS none of us would be here.

Most teenagers will blame god for death, destruction, famine, floods, wars and so on. So point out to them that all of these things are not gods doing, but the result of human greed. Every bad thing in life is linked to this. God gave us free will and 10 commandments to live by. The main theme is love and respect for our fellow man. But destruction of nature and the earth is not respecting others who are exposed to pollutants which shorten their lives. Birth abnormalities may be linked to harmful chemical waste and exposure to high levels of radiation. Ask them to name one thing in life that they can blame god for and they will see that it is mankind that is the root cause. But remember, teenagers are fickle and sometimes they say one thing but do the opposite. I have seen the most hardened of atheists and lapsed catholics asking for priests, ministers etc when on their death beds. Its amazing how many Christians hide their faith because its not fashionable among their friends. :)

As someone who recently came out of my teen years (I'm nearly 22) and
who doesn't identify with any religion, it was all about the
observations I made and how it (didn't) fit my personal beliefs.

It has
nothing to do with what the TV or the internet is telling me or my
peers. I was raised in a church. I have no problem with the concept of
religion, my issue is mostly with organized religion. I think
Christianity has a good message that gets trashed by those trying to
interpret it.

Many of us see the church as homophobic, xenophobic, sexist, and
hypocritical. I do no wish to be affiliated with an organization that
thinks that way. We, Gen Y, tend to be spiritual but not necessarily
slap a name on it or practice nondenominational spirituality.
Unfortunately, it is also true that many leaders within organized
religion fail to live by their own rules and regulations. Many of us are
turned off by the idea of politics and religion mixing. Gen Y tends to
be liberal and many people see conservativeness of the church not
matching their beliefs, so they aren't interested.

On a personal level, I simply feel like I understand more about how the world works scientifically and culturally and do not believe in many of the supernatural elements of the church.

Here's a question for all teens. I have a daughter age 13. I converted to Christianity two years ago. Before that my family was not at all religous. I was brought up Jewish. My daughter started going to church with me a year ago. She starts believing and pulls away, time and time again. Each time getting deeper in our faith. But then her rebelious side wants to explore other religions. My husband and his father are very much against the Christian faith. She pulled so far away six months ago she studied witchcraft. That alone turned my stomach. Over the weekend she was talking about being baptized next month and today she she's telling a new story. My questions are... Should I be concerned that she has stopped believing? Why is she continuely pulling away when things are good? Is she just telling me what I want to hear. Am I as a parent making too much of this? Any advice from a teen perspective would be helpful.

They're smarter these days than they were in the past.

They want to be free.

Most of them are, but we being the Christians should encourage them to stay in faith and do not turn their back and they should encourage their friends to walk in faith

Not just teenagers, but a lot of people are turning away from organised religion .  .

The big ? Would to ask them why don't you believe anymore    I would say yes the media ,divorce,and not much belief in the home I am around teens all the time  and I see  it there's no moral values  in today's world  I hope this helps if you give me a little more info I will try to help more good luck

Turning away from religion is only one factor there are lot of other factors. The economic condition, inflation, poverty, unemployment, educational facilities etc are some of the factors which contribute to these crimes.

Now coming back to religion, you are right that religion is a big factor but when someone doesn't have money to take his/her food then he/she will definitely cross limits by taking law in his/her hand.

The government should provide all basic health, employment, education facilities to public and parents should observe their children closely and give them social and religious education.

Teens don't commit crimes because they are turning away from religion. Crime has absolutely nothing to do with religion in most cases. The only way that religion would have anything to do with it is if these teens were claiming that whomever they believe in told them to do those things. Which then it isn't turning away from religion but it is being overly obsessed with religion or lying so they can get away with it.

I am a teenager and most recently I have turned to religion. And most of my school is turning to this religion and I believe that god will conquer in our last days making everyone aware that he is there for them. Pentecostal/apostolic is the way to go

It actually depends on the persons personality.. And the surrounding in which the child is raised in.
So it depends. Like I'm 13 and I love my religion!!
Stay Safe
=D

I was never brought up to have a religion. Its just how sum families want their kids to be.

I'm 16 and if anything I'm turning more to religion more then anything seen as about 10 months ago I joined the LDS (mormon) faith and to be honest it's the best thing I have ever done

Dear...suprxsydni,
I am a christian, fifteen years old, and a missionary kid to Africa. I am also a lot of other things, but ostensibly those aren't necessary.
I don't know what your name is, how old you are, or whether or not you like math ;), but I know Jesus loves you...enough to die for you.
This isn't a track, or anything, just a love letter from one of God's daughters.
I want to tell you a story...
A little while ago, I was in nowheresvill with my family (not an unusually circumstance). We were there with a team from America, helping them with our knowledge of the culture and language. My youngest sister, whom is six, was sitting on a small stone, playing with a sticker-littered hat when a young boy asked her if she was a christian. She darted her eyes to our mother, and then shrugged. I focused my gaze on her, and wished silently that I would open my mouth to say something, anything, but nothing came out.
A few days latter, I was walking with my mom and she told me my little sister became a christian latter the day that little boy questioned her. I was happy. In fact, I was more then happy. I almost shouted, which would be a very strange thing for me.
My little sister, out in the bushlands where there are hundreds of lost and lonely souls, became a christian. She trusted that Jesus died for her, that she could do nothing to save herself, with what you call 'faith'.
I liked how you described how some people don't believe in God, all that about dragons, fairies, and magic. It is true, this human way of viewing it does seem correct. But what about the wind? Do you think the wind is not real because you can't see it? Of course you would say no, I mean, you feel it...don't you? Duh, what kind of question is that?
I feel God. He sends me rainbows when I feel alone. He warms my heart, putting the pieces back together when it breaks. And he speaks to me.
Now I have a question for you. And no, this isn't a track.
If we weren't put here by God, what are we here for? Why is earth the only planet inhabited by man, by life? Why do you wake up every morning, pull on a some clothes absentmindedly, and head to school, or work?
I have an answer, though it is probably different then yours. I wake up every morning, do my school with a grunt at math, and then head out into the day, to serve God. He put me here. He is real. So real.
In fact, this life is only about Him, to serve Him, to worship Him, to glorify Him for every breath and every happy moment you receive.
So, suprxsydni, I hope you will find Him, or stop running away...and let Him catch up to you.
I'll be praying for you.

I don't think so

They don't turn away from religion they just realize it's a waste of time and energy I mean worshiping a man that doesn't even exist is stupid

Yes teenagers are turning away from religion but they're not the first generation to do it. And excuse me but going to church and reading the bible might make you an active christian but that doesnt mean others don't believe in god. I was living with two ladies who were active christians, I personally have never felt the need to attend church, but that was the beautiful thing about our house, we were all accepting of each others lifestyle. A couple of times I went to their church to watch them sing, deliver the service, or with them to the big sabbath lunches. Now there was a very wise old man that I met through their church and he said to me one day "darling believing in god makes a person a christian, going to church just makes you a active christian."
   Why would people want to be labeled in that sort of group anymore, we have all these racial wars over different beliefs. Why are they so many gods, so many different religions? Just about every culture has their own god and stories about how great they were. So who's right? Is Buddha our creator, is god our creator? At the end of the day it shouldnt really matter!
   I believe there is/was a creator! And I hope to meet him if I arrive in Heaven. But all I know for now is my grandfather looks over me, and he has spoken to me through my dreams. For those who say god speaks to them that must be an amazing feeling but I'm happy with my grandfather. If god wants to chat with me he is going to need to break the ice and contact me. People have lost faith because the world is slowly becoming an ugly place, if he is still watch over us why isn't he doing more to stop this crazy world we live in? Why is he letting people suffer if he loves us as much as you say?