REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT FOR CAMPUSES
LOPEZ CAMPUS
RISKY
BEHAVIORS OF
ADOLESCENTS
Gender and Society – Lesson 7
Mari an B. Reyn al es - G ard u ñ a , MAED, RPm
mbreynales@[Link]
Introduction to Risky Behaviors
Adolescence is a stage of significant growth and change.
It’s marked by curiosity, independence-seeking, and risk-taking behaviors.
Some behaviors are harmless, but others can have serious consequences.
Understanding Risky Behaviors
Risky behaviors: actions that may negatively affect one ’s health or
future.
Adolescents may experiment with behaviors without fully
understanding the risks involved
Common Risky Behaviors Among
Adolescents
Substance Abuse: Smoking, alcohol consumption, drug use.
Example: A teenager experimenting with drugs at a party, leading to addiction.
Unsafe Sexual Practices: Unprotected sex or multiple partners.
Example: A young girl contracting an STI due to unprotected sex.
Reckless Driving: Speeding, driving under the influence.
Example: A teenager crashes a car while texting and driving.
Violence and Aggression
Bullying: Physical or emotional harm to peers.
Example: A teenager bullying others at school, leading to severe
mental health issues for the victim.
Fighting: Physical confrontations with peers.
Example: A high school student getting arrested for fighting after
school.
Eating Disorders in Adolescents
Anorexia/Bulimia: Extreme behaviors to control weight.
o Example: A teenager refusing to eat lunch to fit into a
popular body image.
Self-Harm and Suicidal Behavior
Emotional distress leading to harmful behaviors.
o Example: A teenager cutting themselves to cope with overwhelming
sadness.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
Behavioral changes, academic decline, and emotional
distress can all signal risky behavior.
Signs to Look For:
o Withdrawal from family/friends.
o Sudden changes in appearance or personality.
Behavioral Changes as Warning Signs
Mood swings, sudden outbursts, irritability.
o Example: A previously friendly teen becomes isolated and irritable after a
breakup.
Decline in Academic Performance
Drop in grades or lack of interest in school.
Example: A student who used to be an honors student starts
skipping classes and failing exams due to substance abuse.
Changes in Appearance or Emotional
Distress
Sudden weight loss/gain or neglect of personal hygiene.
o Example: A teenager losing a significant amount of weight due to an
eating disorder.
Excessive fatigue, sleep disturbances, or anxiety.
o Example: A teenager constantly feels anxious and can’t sleep after an
emotional trauma.
Complications of Risky Behaviors
Health Issues: Addiction, STIs, mental health issues.
Legal Problems: Arrest, juvenile detention.
Social Isolation: Loss of friends and alienation from
family.
Strategies to Avoid Risky Behaviors
Education, emotional support, and healthy coping mechanisms can prevent
risky choices.
Healthy Choices:
o Participate in school activities, sports, or hobbies.
o Build strong, positive relationships with family and friends.
Building Emotional and Social Support
Encourage strong, open relationships with family and
trusted adults.
o Example: A teenager talks to a school counselor when
feeling overwhelmed.
Conclusion
Adolescents face challenges and temptations during this phase.
Parents, educators, and peers must guide them toward healthy choices.
Discussion Questions:
o How can we better educate adolescents about the dangers of risky behaviors?
o What role does peer pressure play in these behaviors?
