Topic 10 Preventing Risk Behaviours

Why should teenagers be reminded to avoid risky behaviours?

From a scientific perspective, high-risk behaviours in adolescence can be attributed to lagging and immaturity in the areas of the brain that allow them to plan behaviours and control impulsive behaviours, resulting in insufficient ability to control and fully consider the consequences of their behaviours. Certain risk behaviours among young people of public concern, such as substance abuse, may have severe consequences, and teenagers find it difficult to quit once an abusive habit is formed. So, the best way to eliminate it is to refuse to try.

Main Concepts

Let teenagers understand the health consequences of smoking, drinking, and drug abuse (such as addiction, damage to functions of vital organs, increased risk of heart disease and certain cancers, mental disorders, increased chances of being involved in other risky behaviours and accidents, etc.), as well as their associated consequences and costs (monetary, social, family, illegal, etc.).
Select news on the topic and discuss with students the risky situations teenagers may encounter and the severe consequences. They may also suggest how to respond if involved in a similar scenario.
Discuss with students the possible advantages and disadvantages of risk-taking; distinguish between bravery and impulsiveness and prudence and timidity. Clarify associated values and empower teenagers to aspire to be brave and prudent and be able to make careful and appropriate decisions.
Teachers can use diverse methods such as experiential activities, voluntary services, sports competitions and adventure training activities to cultivate positive personality traits in young people. These traits may include tolerance, gratitude, optimism, courage, caring, perseverance, etc.
Let students discuss how to deal with conflicts and dissatisfaction in a rational and non-violent manner in different situations (online and offline) and how to refuse assertively unreasonable and unwilling requests or invitations harmful to health or pose a safety risk. Teachers can also simulate scenarios or arrange role plays that allow students to give their opinions on the situations that may lead to risky behaviours and discuss feasible ways to respond.
Let students understand under what circumstances (such as being bullied, harassed, violated, threatened, depressed, addicted to an unhealthy habit, etc.) they need to seek help from outside (including family members, teachers, social workers, health professionals, police, etc.). They should also understand that talking to others about what is on their mind and asking for help are signs of bravery, believing that there is always a solution to any difficulty, and having hope for the future.

Keywords

#Risk and bravery #Risk behaviours #Cyberbullying #Values Education

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