DEVELOPMENT

OF SELF IN
SOCIETY

LO PROJECT TASK
3
20 AUGUST 2024

NGCEBO KHANYILE
GRADE 11 MIX
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION (Pg. 3)

2.PSYCHOLOGICAL AND EMOTIONAL

HEALTH AND THEIR BENEFITS
(Pg4-5)

3. YOUTH RISKY BEHAVIOR IN ITS

CONTEXT (Pg. 6-7)

4. MAKING SENSE OF COLLECTED DATA

(Pg. 8-9)

5. RECOMMENDATIONS Pg. 10

6. References Pg. 11

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INTRODUCTION
Balanced lifestyle choices : Balanced lifestyle choices
refer to the decisions we make in various areas of our lives
that promote physical, mental, and emotional health

Psychological health : Psychological health refers to the

state of emotional, mental, and social well-being. It
encompasses various aspects such as , emotional
regulation, and social interactions

Unsafe attitudes : any attitude in which an individual

shows a lack of interest or regard for the safety of oneself or
others (E.G defiance moodiness, Unsafe sex)

Risky behaviors : risky behavior refers to actions taken by

young individuals that can potentially harm their health,

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well-being, or future prospects (E.g. reckless driving,
substance abuse)

PSYCHOLOGICAL AND EMOTIONAL

HEALTH AND THEIR BENEFITS
2.1 )• Peer Pressure

• Curiosity

• lack of parent supervision

• Media Influence

2.2) Firstly, if a person is experiencing high levels of stress,

anxiety, or depression, they may resort to unhealthy coping
mechanisms such as overeating, excessive drinking, or
substance abuse. Secondly, emotional factors can also
impact decision-making processes. When someone is feeling
emotionally overwhelmed or unstable, they may struggle to
think rationally and make sound choices. (E.g. risky sexual
behavior)

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2.3) Being psychologically healthy enables individuals to
make informed decisions about their personal lifestyle
preferences. When someone is psychologically healthy, they
have a better understanding of their own emotions,
thoughts, and behaviors. They are more self-aware and able
to analyze their personal preferences without being
influenced by other factors. Being psychologically healthy
also promotes better problem-solving skills and coping
mechanisms. Individuals with good mental health are better
equipped to handle stress, setbacks, and challenges, which
are inevitable in making lifestyle choices.

2.4) Despite the implementation of various preventative

measures, the rate of teenage pregnancy continues to
increase due to several reasons. Firstly, inadequate sex
education or lack of access to proper and accurate
information about reproductive health contribute to a lack of
knowledge and understanding about contraception and safe
sex practices. Secondly, society and cultural factors play a
role in the increasing rate of teenage pregnancy. In some
communities, early marriage or early parenthood may be
normalized or even encouraged,

Peer influence and social pressure can play a significant role

in teenage pregnancy rates. Adolescents may engage in
risky sexual behaviors due to peer pressure, a desire for
acceptance, or the influence of popular culture. Lack of
support systems, including parental guidance and positive
role models, can contribute to a higher likelihood of
engaging in unprotected sex or early sexual activity.

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YOUTH RISKY BEHAVIOR IN ITS
CONTEXT
3.1) 1. Avoiding negative consequence

2. Personal safety

3. Self-confidence and assertiveness

4. Long-term success and well-being

3.2) Communities with high poverty rates often lack access

to quality education, healthcare, and employment
opportunities. Youth in these environments may feel

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hopeless about their future prospects and turn to drugs as a
means of escape or as a way to cope with their
circumstances. When parents or guardians are absent or
preoccupied with their struggles, young people may lack
guidance and support, making it easier for them to
experiment with drugs as they seek to fill the emotional void
or mirror they observe.

3.3) By observing adults who exhibit positive qualities such

as integrity, kindness, and responsibility, young people can
learn by example and strive to emulate those qualities in
their own lives. Positive role models can provide guidance
and support to youth as they navigate difficult situations
and make important decisions. By offering advice and
encouragement, role models can help young people develop
a strong sense of values and ethics.

3.4) Utilize platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter to

create engaging content that highlights the dangers of drug
abuse. This could include , personal stories, videos, and
challenges that encourage discussions around the topic.
Organize workshops and seminars in schools and
community centers where youth can educate their peers on
the risks associated with drug use. Peer-led discussions
often resonate better with young audiences. Use art, music,
theater, and poetry to express the harmful effects of drugs .
Reach out to local influencers or public figures to create
content or participate in awareness campaigns . Create
documentaries or short films that depict real-life stories of
individuals affected by drug abuse, highlighting both the
struggles and paths to recovery.

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3.5) Long-term Impact: It is essential to assess the long-
term impact of these programs. Monitoring the behavior and
choices of young people over a significant period can
determine if the education they received through these
programs was effectively implemented in their lives or if
there is a need for further reinforcement : The first step is to
establish clear and measurable objectives for these
programs. For example, the rate of teenage pregnancy,
sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and the knowledge
level of safe sexual practices among young people can be
tracked before and after the implementation of the program.

MAKING SENSE OF COLLECTED

DATA

5.1) 1. Peer influence: The desire to fit in and gain social

acceptance

2. Curiosity and exploration.

3. Desire for intimacy and connection

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 4. Lack of knowledge and information: Limited or
inaccurate knowledge about sexual health.

5.2) Distraction: If a youth is involved in risky sexual

behavior, it can become a significant distraction in their life.
It may consume their thoughts, time, and energy, leading to
a loss of focus on their studies. Health Consequences: Risky
sexual behavior can result in health consequences such as
sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or unplanned
pregnancies Social Stigma and Peer Pressure: Engaging in
risky sexual behavior can lead to social stigma and
judgment from peers and other members of the community.
This stigma can create feelings of shame or isolation that
make it challenging for a youth to focus on their academics.

5.3) Financial hardships: Teenage parents often face

financial difficulties due to limited education and job
opportunities. This can result in inadequate resources to
provide for the child’s basic needs. Lack of proper guidance
and support: Teenagers may lack the necessary life
experience and emotional maturity

5.4) Emotional response: Boys may experience a range of

emotions such as shock, confusion, fear, and anxiety upon
learning about the pregnancy.

Boys may feel pressured to provide financial support for the

baby and the mother, which can be stressful especially if
they are not financially stable or prepared for the added
expenses. Social stigma: Boys may face judgment and
criticism from their families, peers, and society at large

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5.5) Time Constraints: Young parents often face time
commitments related to childcare, which can limit their
availability for work, professional development, and
networking opportunities.

Work Experience: If young parents prioritize family

responsibilities, they may have less work experience
compared to their peers. This can impact their
competitiveness in the job market.

Financial Burdens: Young parents may face financial

pressures that require them to take jobs that are not aligned
with their career goals or aspirations. This can hinder their
ability to pursue their desired career path or invest in further
education.

Recommendations

6.1) sex education: Schools and community organizations

should provide comprehensive sex education that goes
beyond just teaching about anatomy and reproduction. It

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should include topics like consent, healthy relationships,
contraception methods, sexually transmitted infections
(STIs), and the emotional aspects of sexuality

Peer-driven initiatives: Youth-led initiatives, such as peer

education programs or youth health groups, can be
effective in reaching their peers. Youth may be more
receptive to educational messages when they come from
individuals their own age who can understand and relate to
their experiences.

6.2) Awareness campaigns: Encourage the youth to take

part in organizing and executing awareness campaigns
within the school premises. This could involve creating
posters, distributing pamphlets, organizing assemblies, and
conducting skits or role plays to raise awareness about the
consequences of risky sexual behavior.

Peer mentoring: Train a group of youth to become peer

mentors who can educate and guide their fellow students on
safe sexual practices. These mentors can conduct informal
discussions, organize workshops, and provide confidential
advice to their peers

Support group creation: Establish support groups within the

school where students can openly discuss their concerns,
experiences, and questions related to risky sexual behavior.

Bibliography/References

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•Life Orientation: Grade 11 Learner’s
Book, CAPS. By J. Strydom, M. Benning,
and A. Msimanga.

• www.studucolearning.com

• www.brainly.in

• Focus learning Grade 11

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