“Affluenza”

On the TUNNEYSIDE of SPORTS January 11, 2016 # 575 Up next…” Affluenza”

After further review…” Affluenza” is described by some as the inability to understand the consequences of one’s actions because of financial privilege, notably in the case of 18-year-old Ethan Couch of Ft. Worth, Texas. Couch was apprehended in Mexico on December 29, and is being held for violating his probation following his conviction on four counts of manslaughter. Driving drunk at age 16, Couch killed four pedestrians near Ft. Worth and was sentenced to probation and rehab after a defense invoked the affluenza argument. Further analysis of the affluenza concept might better describe it as “spoiled-brat!”

We certainly have seen teenagers with substance abuse issues cause fatalities and bodily harm. Couch takes this to a new level with the introduction of the affluenza defense. At this writing he has shown no remorse for the deaths of others. His mother has been returned to Texas where her lawyers will attempt to clear her of “aiding the flight of a wanted felon” charges. But what responsibility does she take for raising her son in such a manner? Let’s hope those representing Couch do not play the “it’s a ‘disability’ card.”

Since these TunneySides focus on the world of sports, we certainly need to address the number of crimes and subsequent arrests involving our sports stars. Not many a day goes by that we don’t read or hear about one of these celebrity sports stars being charged with a deviation from law-abiding behavior. Often it involves DUKWIAM (“Don’t you know who I am?”), the inference being that such a “superstar” should be immune to arrests. However, it must be said that in our opinion the vast majority of athletes take their responsibilities as citizens seriously. It is estimated that approximately two percent are the irresponsible ones.

It is often stated that sports stars must “hold themselves to a higher standard.” Should that be the case? I mean, if it were your neighborhood handyman who was charged with that same crime, it may well be ignored. It is the TunneySide’s belief that, yes indeed, if a sport star accepts that role with all its rewards, then the responsibility for avoiding egregious conduct is part of the job.

Will you accept responsibility for your behavior in everything you do?

To contact Jim go to www.jimtunney.com or email him jim@jimtunney.com.

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