Discuss the factors that cause or influence the youth to engage in each of the four types of risky behavior amongst the youth
Memorundum
Life orientation
Peer pressure is a main one.
Discuss the factors that cause or influence the youth to engage in each of the four types of risky behaviour
L.o
The four types of risky behaviors commonly observed among youth are substance abuse, risky sexual behavior, delinquency, and reckless driving. While there can be numerous factors that influence young people to engage in these behaviors, it is important to understand that each individual's circumstances may vary. However, here are some common factors that can contribute to each type of risky behavior:
1. Substance abuse:
- Peer pressure: Youth often succumb to peer pressure as they try to fit in or gain acceptance within their social circles. Friends who engage in substance abuse may influence others to do the same.
- Family environment: A dysfunctional family setting, parental substance abuse, or lack of parental supervision can increase the risk of youth engaging in substance abuse.
- Emotional or mental health issues: Stress, low self-esteem, or mental health disorders such as anxiety or depression may drive young people to use substances as a coping mechanism.
To address substance abuse among youth, interventions should focus on promoting positive peer influences, improving family dynamics, and providing mental health support.
2. Risky sexual behavior:
- Lack of comprehensive sex education: Inadequate knowledge about contraception, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and pregnancy prevention can lead to risky sexual behavior.
- Media influence: Exposure to sexually explicit content in media platforms can distort perceptions about healthy relationships and lead to early sexual experimentation.
- Desire for acceptance or love: Seeking validation or a sense of belonging, some youth may engage in risky sexual behavior to establish and maintain relationships.
To address risky sexual behavior, comprehensive and age-appropriate sex education should be provided, emphasizing healthy relationships, consent, and safe sex practices. Access to contraceptives and counseling services should also be available.
3. Delinquency (criminal behavior):
- Peer influence and social norms: Associating with delinquent peers who encourage or engage in illegal activities can normalize such behavior.
- Lack of positive role models: Absence of positive role models or mentors can lead youth to seek guidance from negative influences, increasing the likelihood of delinquent behavior.
- Socioeconomic factors: Poverty, limited access to opportunities, or exposure to violence and crime can contribute to delinquency.
To address delinquency, community programs that provide positive role models, after-school activities, and opportunities for skill-building can help divert youth towards constructive engagement and away from criminal behavior.
4. Reckless driving:
- Sensation-seeking behavior: Some youth engage in reckless driving for the thrill or adrenaline rush it provides.
- Peer influence: Young people may feel pressured to engage in risky driving maneuvers to impress their friends or fit into a particular social group.
- Lack of awareness about consequences: Inexperience, coupled with a lack of understanding or underestimation of the potential dangers, can lead to reckless driving.
To address reckless driving among youth, driver education programs should focus on emphasizing responsible and defensive driving, as well as raising awareness about the potential consequences of dangerous behavior on the road.
It is important to note that addressing these risky behaviors requires a comprehensive approach involving education, support systems, community involvement, and accessible resources. Understanding the underlying factors can help tailor interventions to effectively prevent or minimize youth engagement in risky behaviors.