Write a persuasive format in apa format on this topic. “Ages under 21 should not be allowed to enlist in the United States Army” .

Write a persuasive format in apa format on this topic. “Ages under 21 should not be allowed to enlist in the United States Army” . below is a thesis of what I have tried to come up with use it to help you or guide you . THESIS Although the army career that enforces discipline and inserts structure, ages under 21years should not be allowed to join because their brain is not fully developed enough to make such a huge commitment, they are more prone to mental health problems and it interrupts with development opportunities.
ANSWER
Title: Ages Under 21 Should Not Be Allowed to Enlist in the United States Army
I. Introduction
The decision to enlist in the United States Army is one of great significance, both for the individual and for the nation. It demands unwavering commitment, discipline, and a deep understanding of the consequences that come with the choice to serve. While the Army undoubtedly offers valuable career opportunities and instills discipline, the question arises: should ages under 21 be allowed to make this life-altering commitment? This paper argues that individuals under the age of 21 should not be permitted to enlist in the United States Army due to the incomplete development of their brains, their heightened susceptibility to mental health issues, and the potential disruption it poses to their personal development opportunities.
II. Incomplete Brain Development
One of the primary reasons to prohibit those under 21 from enlisting in the Army is the incomplete development of their brains. The prefrontal cortex, responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and evaluating long-term consequences, is still maturing during the late teens and early twenties (Steinberg, 2010). This developmental stage makes individuals under 21 more impulsive and less capable of fully comprehending the magnitude of an Army commitment.
III. Increased Susceptibility to Mental Health Problems
Another compelling argument against enlisting under 21 is their heightened vulnerability to mental health problems. The stresses and demands of military service can be overwhelming, leading to an increased risk of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (Iversen et al., 2011). Younger enlistees may lack the emotional resilience and coping skills necessary to confront these challenges effectively.
IV. Disruption of Development Opportunities
Joining the Army at a very young age can disrupt essential personal development opportunities. It can impede the pursuit of higher education, vocational training, and other career paths. Delaying military service until a later age allows individuals to explore various options and make a more informed decision about their long-term aspirations.
V. Conclusion
In conclusion, while the United States Army provides numerous benefits, including discipline and structure, enlisting individuals under 21 poses significant risks and potential drawbacks. Their incomplete brain development, increased susceptibility to mental health problems, and the interruption of development opportunities argue for prohibiting enlistment for this age group. Ensuring that individuals make such a profound commitment with fully developed faculties and a more mature understanding of the implications is not only in their best interest but also in the best interest of the nation’s armed forces.
References:
Iversen, A. C., van Staden, L., Hughes, J. H., Browne, T., Hull, L., Hall, J., … & Fear, N. T. (2011). The prevalence of common mental disorders and PTSD in the UK military: Using data from a clinical interview-based study. BMC Psychiatry, 11(1), 68.
Steinberg, L. (2010). A dual systems model of adolescent risk-taking. Developmental Psychobiology, 52(3), 216-224.