Steroids

Gr 8 Up—Ten chapters discuss the different types of steroids, their effects on the body, and trends in steroid use. The host, espn.com reporter Tom Murray, presents facts about these performance enhancing drugs and introduces experts and advocates who testify to symptoms and side effects of steroid use. Steroid use is attractive to young athletes because it offers a short-cut to building extraordinary strength and muscle mass. Some young men and women choose to use steroids to gain an athletic edge or to improve their body image. Testimony from the father of a young steroid user who committed suicide establishes the link between steroids and powerful mood swings. The 12-page teacher's guide, available online (films.com), provides pre- and post-viewing questions and suggested activities. The coverage of this important topic is somewhat heavy-handed, but some would argue that you can't sugarcoat a growing problem.—Ann Weber, Bellarmine College Prep., San Jose, CA