Teen Raves

History of the Rave

Teen raves first came to this country from Europe in the early 1990’s. They are underground dance parties often held in warehouses, fields, lofts, barns, and even abandoned buildings, usually without legal permits or permission from the local authorities.

As such, partygoers most often learn of them through word of mouth, or through advertisements on the Internet; their precise locations undisclosed until the day they are held. Attendees then call a secret phone number for an address or directions.

Today, however, more and more teen raves are becoming mainstream affairs thrown like any other entertainment event; with the necessary permission of the local authorities.

Why Teens Attend Teen Raves

There are several reasons why teenagers attend these all night dance parties. First, and contrary to popular belief, avid ravers claim that [[Teen_Slang | drugs] are no more prevalent at raves than in any other part of society. They say kids are safer at raves than at other dances and teen hangouts because alcohol is traditionally not allowed at raves.

Further, kids cannot carry in purses or bags, and they are searched for drugs coming in through the door. Many say it’s all about the music, and promoters echo this sentiment claiming raves are just large dance parties and a place to connect with other like-minded individuals. The drug use, they say, is akin to a self-fulfilling prophecy: if you expect to use while in attendance, then use you will.

Secondly, teenagers feel the rave environment offers them a sense of community apart from the adult world, and a release from the stress of very busy lives. Many kids today run straight from school to soccer practice, and other extracurricular activities, without so much as a pause between. This leaves many teens feeling overwhelmed, overextended, and just plain stressed out. Many teens feel that the music and people-friendly vibe of raves helps to relieve that tension.

Third, many ravers claim their guiding principle in attending teen raves is not about drugs, but rather PLUR, that is, peace, love, unity, and respect.

Today’s teens are prompted to attend because of the ever-changing image of raves. Not all rave parties are held in secretive hideaways. Instead, they are advertised on the Internet, and radio, and are being held with the consent of local authorities. So much so, that local police and parents sometimes attend the parties themselves.

Possible Dangers of Attending a Rave

Although you may be embracing the principle of PLUR, others may not. Not to scare you, but if you choose to attend a rave, you should be well informed of the potential pitfalls. Here are some reasons you may want to practice caution before attending:

• The very drugs you use to have a good time may actually make you a victim. Using drugs makes you more susceptible to becoming a victim. Be smart, keep yourself safe, and don’t use them.
• You are at a greater risk for [www.dating.lovetoknow.com/Date_Rape date rape]. Here are the facts: you are at a greater risk for rape simply because here, there are more opportunities for someone to slip something into your drink, than say, in a more controlled environment, like school.
• If there is a fight people are less likely to call the police. This is true on so many levels. First, the party may be in violation of the fire safety laws, and if officials are alerted because of a skirmish between patrons, the promoters may go to jail. Second, many promoters know that drugs are being circulated on their watch, so it does not behoove them to call the police. If a fight breaks out, it will be up to you to keep yourself safe.

Club Drugs

To ignore the rave and drug connection would be foolish. The chart below list some of those drugs, their street names, and some of their side effects.

And the Verdict Is…

Ultimately teenagers are smart enough to attend a rave and not do drugs, become a victim of date rape or get trapped in a fire. Many are curious to see what all the hoopla is about, and since your friends may also be going, you feel a strong urge to attend. Before you decide on whether or not to go, think about all the dangers (fights breaking out, rampant drug use etc.) you may face, and come up with a solid and workable plan to get yourself out of any unforeseen jams. Know your fire exits, tell an adult where you’ll be, and keep your mind free and clear of drugs.

Ladies, a great trick is to never pick up a glass you’ve left behind when you come back from the restroom. Just buy another. You don’t want to spend your night fighting paranoia wondering if someone has slipped something into your drink.

Another tip? When someone asks you to do something you know you shouldn’t, look them coolly in the eye and say, “Nah, man (or dude), that’s not for me”. Try it. With these tips in mind, you can wisely and safely choose between attending a teen rave or not, simply use your own smarts to make the right decision.