Using your own words, explain what is

meant by youth risky behavior.

Youth risky behavior refers to actions taken by young individuals that can
potentially harm their health, well-being, or future prospects. These behaviors
often involve a disregard for personal safety or societal norms and can include
activities such as substance abuse, unsafe sexual practices, and reckless
driving.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When explaining youth risky

behavior, use straightforward language and give examples that are relatable
to your peers. Focus on the potential negative outcomes to underscore the
seriousness of these behaviors.

Mention and describe two types of youth

risky behavior.
Two types of youth risky behavior are:

1. Substance Abuse: This involves the use of alcohol, drugs, or other

substances in a way that is harmful to oneself. For example, binge drinking at
parties can lead to addiction, health problems, and impaired judgment,
increasing the likelihood of accidents and poor decision-making.
2. Unsafe Sexual Practices: Engaging in sexual activities without proper
protection or consent can result in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and
unintended pregnancies. This type of risky behavior can significantly affect a
young person’s physical and emotional health, as well as their future
opportunities.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When describing types of risky

behavior, ensure you provide specific examples and explain the potential
consequences. This will make your answer more impactful and relevant.

Explain two contributing factors to the

above risky behaviors.
Two contributing factors to youth risky behaviors are:
1. Peer Pressure: Many young people engage in risky behaviors due to the
influence of their peers. The desire to fit in and be accepted can lead to
experimenting with substances or engaging in unsafe sexual practices.
According to the National Youth Risk Behaviour Survey, peer pressure is a
significant factor in the prevalence of risky behaviors among South African
youth.
2. Lack of Education and Awareness: A lack of proper education and
awareness about the consequences of risky behaviors can contribute to their
occurrence. For instance, not understanding the dangers of drug use or the
importance of safe sex practices can lead to poor choices.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When explaining contributing

factors, relate them to real-life situations and use statistics to support your
points. This approach will help you create a comprehensive and convincing
argument.

Critically discuss two ways in which

engaging in risky behavior such as alcohol
abuse could affect the youth’s attempt to
live healthy personal lives.
Engaging in risky behavior such as alcohol abuse can severely affect a
youth’s attempt to live a healthy personal life in the following ways:

1. Physical Health Deterioration: Alcohol abuse can lead to serious health

problems such as liver disease, cardiovascular issues, and brain damage.
The World Health Organization reports that excessive alcohol consumption is
a leading cause of preventable diseases and deaths worldwide. For a young
person, these health issues can reduce their quality of life and limit their ability
to participate in everyday activities.
2. Mental Health Issues: Regular alcohol abuse is often linked to mental health
disorders such as depression and anxiety. These conditions can hinder a
young person’s ability to maintain healthy relationships, perform well
academically, and achieve their life goals. The South African Depression and
Anxiety Group (SADAG) notes that substance abuse is a major factor in the
increasing rates of mental health issues among the youth in South Africa.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When critically discussing the

effects of risky behaviors, use detailed explanations and relevant data.
 Highlight both immediate and long-term impacts to show a thorough
understanding of the topic.

Define the term substance abuse.

Substance abuse refers to the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive
substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs. It involves the consumption of
these substances in a manner that is detrimental to one’s health, social life,
and daily functioning.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When defining terms, keep your
explanation clear and concise. Use language that is easy to understand and
relevant to your peers’ experiences.

State two factors that may contribute to

young people abusing substances.
Two factors that may contribute to young people abusing substances are:

1. Peer Pressure: Young individuals often feel a strong need to fit in with their
peers. When friends or classmates engage in substance abuse, the pressure
to conform can lead others to try substances as well. This desire for
acceptance can overpower their awareness of the risks involved.
2. Stress and Coping Mechanisms: Adolescents facing high levels of stress,
whether from academic pressures, family issues, or personal challenges, may
turn to substances as a way to cope. Substance use might seem like a
temporary escape from their problems, leading to potential abuse.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When stating factors, explain

how each one specifically influences the behavior. Use relatable scenarios to
strengthen your answer.

Describe how being exposed to high

prevalent rates of substance abuse could
negatively impact social life in
communities.
Being exposed to high prevalent rates of substance abuse can significantly
negatively impact social life in communities. Substance abuse often leads to
increased crime rates, as individuals under the influence may engage in illegal
activities to sustain their addiction. This rise in crime creates an unsafe
environment, fostering fear and distrust among community members.

Additionally, substance abuse can break down family structures and social
networks. When parents or guardians are addicted, children may face neglect
or abuse, leading to a cycle of substance abuse across generations.
Community cohesion is weakened as relationships deteriorate and social
support systems crumble.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When describing impacts, link

them to specific community aspects and provide examples. Highlight both
immediate and long-term consequences for a comprehensive answer.

Explain how substance abuse could

negatively impact young people’s physical
wellbeing.
Substance abuse can severely impact young people’s physical wellbeing in
various ways. Prolonged use of drugs and alcohol can lead to chronic health
issues such as liver damage, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory
problems. For instance, the regular consumption of alcohol can result in liver
cirrhosis, a life-threatening condition that affects the liver’s ability to function
properly.

Moreover, substance abuse can impair the immune system, making young
individuals more susceptible to infections and diseases. Drug use, particularly
through injection, increases the risk of contracting bloodborne diseases such
as HIV and Hepatitis. These health problems can significantly reduce the
quality of life and increase healthcare costs for the affected individuals and
their families.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When explaining impacts, focus

on specific health issues and use relevant examples. This will make your
answer more detailed and informative.
 Discuss two ways in which drug abuse
could negatively impact the ability of young
people to effectively pursue their future
careers.
Drug abuse can negatively impact the ability of young people to effectively
pursue their future careers in the following ways:

1. Impaired Cognitive Functioning: Drug abuse can damage the brain, leading
to impaired cognitive abilities such as memory, attention, and decision-making
skills. This cognitive decline can affect academic performance, making it
difficult for young individuals to complete their education and acquire the
necessary qualifications for their desired careers.
2. Workplace Issues: Even if young individuals manage to secure employment,
ongoing drug abuse can lead to poor job performance, frequent absenteeism,
and strained relationships with colleagues and supervisors. This can result in
job loss and tarnished professional reputations, hindering career progression
and opportunities.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When discussing career

impacts, provide specific examples of how drug abuse can affect job
performance and employability. Use real-life scenarios to illustrate your points.

State five critical factors that may

contribute to young people deciding to
engage in risky behaviors.
Five critical factors that may contribute to young people deciding to engage in
risky behaviors are:

1. Peer Pressure: The influence of friends and peers can strongly encourage
risky behavior as young people seek acceptance and validation within their
social groups.
2. Lack of Parental Guidance: Absence of supervision and guidance from
parents or guardians can leave young people without the necessary support
to make safe choices.
3. Media Influence: Exposure to media that glamorizes risky behaviors can lead
young people to mimic such actions, believing them to be desirable or without
serious consequences.
4. Low Self-Esteem: Individuals with low self-esteem may engage in risky
behaviors to gain confidence, attention, or a sense of belonging.
5. Curiosity and Experimentation: Natural curiosity and the desire to
experience new things can drive young people to experiment with behaviors
that are dangerous or harmful.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When stating factors, explain

how each one influences risky behavior. Use real-life examples to make your
answer more relatable.

Describe one way in which considering

healthy lifestyle choices may persuade
young people not to engage in risky
behavior.
Considering healthy lifestyle choices can persuade young people not to
engage in risky behavior by highlighting the benefits of maintaining good
health and well-being. For instance, participating in sports and physical
activities can provide a positive outlet for energy and stress, promoting
physical fitness and mental health. Engaging in these activities can foster a
sense of achievement, boost self-esteem, and create a supportive community,
reducing the appeal of risky behaviors such as substance abuse or unsafe
sexual practices.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When describing the influence

of healthy choices, focus on specific benefits and provide examples. Highlight
how these choices lead to positive outcomes.

Discuss four contributing factors that may

lead to an increase of learners abusing
substances in schools.
Four contributing factors that may lead to an increase of learners abusing
substances in schools are:
1. Accessibility: Easy access to drugs and alcohol can significantly increase
substance abuse among learners. In some communities, substances are
readily available, making it easier for students to obtain them.
2. Stress and Academic Pressure: High levels of stress and pressure to
perform academically can lead students to use substances as a coping
mechanism. The competitive nature of school environments can exacerbate
this issue.
3. Lack of Awareness: Insufficient education about the dangers of substance
abuse can leave students unaware of the severe consequences. Without
proper knowledge, they may underestimate the risks involved.
4. Family Issues: Dysfunctional family environments, such as those involving
domestic violence or substance abuse by parents, can contribute to learners
turning to substances as an escape or coping strategy.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When discussing contributing

factors, provide detailed explanations and relevant examples. Use statistics or
studies to support your points where possible.

Carefully examine the impact of drug

addiction on emotional and physical
spheres.
Drug addiction has profound impacts on both the emotional and physical
spheres of an individual’s life:

Emotional Impact: Drug addiction can lead to severe emotional and mental
health issues. Addicts often experience anxiety, depression, and mood
swings, which can strain relationships with family and friends. The South
African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) highlights that substance
abuse is a significant factor in the rise of mental health issues among youth.
Feelings of guilt, shame, and hopelessness are common, further exacerbating
emotional distress.

Physical Impact: The physical effects of drug addiction are equally

devastating. Long-term use can lead to chronic health conditions such as
heart disease, liver damage, and respiratory problems. For instance, regular
use of methamphetamine can cause severe dental problems, skin sores, and
weight loss. The physical toll can reduce overall life expectancy and
significantly impair daily functioning.
Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When examining impacts, detail
both emotional and physical consequences. Use specific health conditions
and mental health issues as examples to illustrate the severity of drug
addiction.

Discuss external factors that impact

negatively on your lifestyle choices,
namely: unsafe road use.
External factors like unsafe road use can negatively impact lifestyle choices
by increasing the risk of accidents and injuries. Reckless driving, speeding,
and not wearing seat belts are common behaviors that contribute to road
accidents. According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC),
South Africa has one of the highest road accident rates globally, with
thousands of fatalities each year.

Unsafe road use can lead to severe injuries, disabilities, or even death, which
can drastically alter one’s lifestyle. Survivors of road accidents may face long-
term physical rehabilitation and psychological trauma, affecting their ability to
participate in daily activities, work, and social interactions.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When discussing external

factors, provide statistics and real-life examples. Explain how these factors
specifically alter lifestyle choices and the long-term consequences involved.

Investigate the influence of self-esteem and

teenagers participating in risky behavior.
Self-esteem significantly influences whether teenagers participate in risky
behavior. Teenagers with low self-esteem may engage in risky behaviors such
as substance abuse, unsafe sexual practices, and delinquency to gain
acceptance or boost their confidence. The South African Depression and
Anxiety Group (SADAG) reports that teenagers with low self-esteem are more
susceptible to peer pressure and are likely to seek validation through risky
actions.

Conversely, teenagers with high self-esteem are more likely to make positive
lifestyle choices and resist peer pressure. They are generally more confident
in their decisions and have a better understanding of the consequences of
 risky behaviors. Programs that promote self-esteem, such as life skills
workshops in schools, can help reduce the incidence of risky behaviors
among teenagers.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When investigating the

influence of self-esteem, provide examples of how different levels of self-
esteem affect behavior. Use studies or reports to support your findings.

What is anorexia?
Anorexia, or anorexia nervosa, is an eating disorder characterized by an
intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image, leading to restricted
food intake and excessive weight loss. Individuals with anorexia often see
themselves as overweight even when they are underweight, and they may
engage in extreme dieting, excessive exercise, or other behaviors to lose
weight.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When defining terms, provide

clear and concise explanations. Include key characteristics and behaviors
associated with the condition to ensure a comprehensive understanding.

Suggest ways in which anorexia can be

prevented among adolescents.
Preventing anorexia among adolescents involves a multi-faceted approach
focusing on education, support, and early intervention. Here are some
effective strategies:

1. Promote Healthy Body Image: Schools and communities should implement

programs that encourage a positive body image and self-esteem. Campaigns
and workshops can address the unrealistic beauty standards perpetuated by
media and social media. For example, the Body Positive Movement promotes
acceptance and appreciation of all body types.
2. Education and Awareness: Educating adolescents, parents, and teachers
about the signs and dangers of eating disorders is crucial. Early intervention
can prevent the development of anorexia. Schools can include information
about eating disorders in their health education curriculum.
 Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When suggesting prevention
methods, highlight specific programs and initiatives. Emphasize the
importance of early intervention and education in your answers.

Assess the value of positive role models on

one’s behavior.
Positive role models can have a profound impact on an individual’s behavior,
especially during adolescence.

1. Guidance and Inspiration: Positive role models provide guidance and

inspiration, demonstrating healthy behaviors and attitudes. Adolescents who
look up to role models like successful athletes, community leaders, or family
members are more likely to adopt positive habits. For instance, seeing a role
model prioritize education and hard work can motivate learners to focus on
their studies.
2. Building Confidence and Resilience: Positive role models can help build
confidence and resilience in young people. By overcoming challenges and
achieving their goals, role models show that it is possible to succeed despite
obstacles. This can encourage adolescents to persevere in their own pursuits,
fostering a growth mindset.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When assessing the value of

role models, use specific examples of how role models influence behavior.
Highlight the traits and actions of role models that positively affect young
people.

Recommend two practical strategies that

could be implemented by the community to
ensure that the anti-substance abuse
campaigns are effective.
1. Community Education Programs: Implementing comprehensive education
programs that inform both young people and their families about the dangers
of substance abuse can be very effective. These programs should include
workshops, seminars, and informational materials that highlight the long-term
consequences of substance use. Collaboration with local schools, healthcare
 providers, and law enforcement can enhance the reach and impact of these
programs.
2. Support and Counseling Services: Providing accessible support and
counseling services for those at risk of or currently struggling with substance
abuse is essential. Establishing community centers where individuals can
receive free or low-cost counseling, support groups, and rehabilitation
services can make a significant difference. The involvement of trained
professionals and volunteers can help address the underlying issues leading
to substance abuse.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When recommending

strategies, focus on community-based initiatives and explain how these can
directly address substance abuse issues. Use examples of successful
programs if possible.

State four benefits of the youth

participation in community anti-substance
abuse campaigns.
1. Increased Awareness: Youth participation in anti-substance abuse
campaigns helps spread awareness among peers. When young people lead
initiatives, their messages resonate more with their age group, effectively
educating others about the risks of substance abuse.
2. Leadership Development: Involvement in such campaigns helps youth
develop leadership skills. Organizing events, speaking publicly, and
coordinating with community members enhance their ability to lead and take
initiative.
3. Peer Support Networks: Participating in these campaigns fosters a sense of
community and peer support. Youth can build networks of support, helping
each other stay accountable and avoid substance abuse.
4. Positive Behavioral Change: Engaging in community service and activism
can lead to positive behavioral changes. Youth involved in these campaigns
are more likely to make healthy choices and influence their peers to do the
same.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When stating benefits, provide

specific examples of how participation impacts both the individual and the
community. Highlight the importance of peer influence and leadership skills.
 Evaluate the impact of risky behavior on
your personal expectations in relation to
the career you want to follow.
Engaging in risky behavior can have a detrimental impact on personal
expectations and career aspirations.

1. Academic Setbacks: Risky behaviors such as substance abuse, unsafe

sexual practices, and delinquency can lead to academic setbacks. Poor
grades, frequent absenteeism, and disciplinary issues can hinder the ability to
gain the necessary qualifications for a desired career. For example, a student
who frequently skips school to engage in risky behavior may struggle to meet
the academic requirements for university admission.
2. Professional Reputation: Risky behaviors can also tarnish one’s
professional reputation before a career even begins. Criminal records or a
history of substance abuse can limit job opportunities and affect professional
relationships. Employers often conduct background checks, and a history of
risky behavior can be a significant disadvantage in securing employment.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When evaluating the impact of

risky behavior, relate it to specific career goals and expectations. Use
examples to illustrate how such behaviors can hinder academic and
professional success.

State three examples of unsafe attitudes

that could cause Grade 11 learners to make
risky decisions.
1. Invincibility Mindset: Believing that they are invincible and that nothing bad
will happen to them can lead learners to engage in risky behaviors, such as
experimenting with drugs or driving recklessly.
2. Rebellion Against Authority: An attitude of defiance and rebellion against
parents, teachers, or societal norms can push learners to make unsafe
decisions as a form of resistance or to assert their independence.
3. Desire for Instant Gratification: Prioritizing immediate pleasure or
excitement over long-term consequences can lead learners to make impulsive
decisions, such as participating in unsafe sexual activities or substance
abuse.
Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When stating examples, clearly
link attitudes to specific risky behaviors. Explain how these attitudes can lead
to negative outcomes.

Describe one socio-economic factor

associated with poverty that could make it
difficult for Grade 11 learners to make
healthy nutritional choices.
One socio-economic factor associated with poverty that could make it difficult
for Grade 11 learners to make healthy nutritional choices is limited access to
affordable, nutritious food. In low-income communities, healthy food options
such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins are often more expensive and
less accessible than processed and fast foods. Families with limited financial
resources may prioritize cheaper, calorie-dense foods to stretch their budgets,
leading to poor nutrition.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When describing socio-

economic factors, provide specific examples of how these factors affect daily
choices. Highlight the impact on health and well-being.

Explain why Grade 11 learners might give

in to peer pressure, even though they know
it is risky.
Grade 11 learners might give in to peer pressure despite knowing it is risky
due to the strong desire for social acceptance and fear of rejection.
Adolescence is a critical period for social development, and fitting in with
peers can feel more important than personal safety or long-term
consequences. The influence of friends who engage in risky behaviors can
make it challenging for learners to resist, especially if they want to maintain
their social standing or avoid being ostracized.

Additionally, the lack of self-confidence and assertiveness can make it difficult

for learners to stand up against peer pressure. They may worry about being
judged or ridiculed for not conforming to group norms, leading them to engage
in risky behaviors to avoid negative social repercussions.
 Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When explaining reasons for
giving in to peer pressure, use relatable scenarios and emphasize the
psychological aspects of social acceptance. Discuss strategies for resisting
peer pressure effectively.

Mention five negative effects that an

unplanned teenage pregnancy could have
on a Grade 11 learner’s future career goals.
1. Interrupted Education: An unplanned pregnancy can lead to dropping out of
school, delaying or even ending the pursuit of academic qualifications
necessary for future career goals.
2. Financial Strain: Raising a child requires significant financial resources,
which can limit the ability to invest in education or career development.
3. Limited Career Opportunities: Balancing the responsibilities of parenthood
with work or further education can be challenging, leading to limited career
advancement and opportunities.
4. Social Stigma: Teenage parents often face social stigma and discrimination,
which can affect their self-esteem and professional relationships.
5. Health Issues: Pregnancy and childbirth can have health implications for the
young mother, potentially impacting her ability to work or study effectively.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When discussing the effects of

unplanned teenage pregnancy, focus on specific challenges and their impact
on career goals. Provide examples to illustrate how these challenges can
affect long-term aspirations.

Describe ways in which Grade 11 learners

could be psychologically traumatized by
road accidents caused by their own
irresponsible road use.
Grade 11 learners could be psychologically traumatized by road accidents
caused by their own irresponsible road use in several ways:

1. Guilt and Shame: Knowing that their actions led to an accident can cause
intense feelings of guilt and shame. This self-blame can be overwhelming and
 affect their self-esteem and mental health. For example, a learner who caused
a crash due to speeding may constantly replay the incident in their mind,
struggling with the thought that they could have prevented it.
2. Fear and Anxiety: Experiencing a traumatic road accident can lead to
ongoing fear and anxiety, particularly related to driving or riding in vehicles.
This can manifest as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), where the learner
might have flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety whenever they are
reminded of the accident.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When describing psychological

trauma, focus on specific emotional and mental health impacts. Provide
examples to illustrate the long-term effects of such incidents.

Explain ways in which psychological ill-

health caused by an unbalanced lifestyle
could make it difficult for individuals to
maintain high levels of hygiene.
Psychological ill-health caused by an unbalanced lifestyle can make it difficult
for individuals to maintain high levels of hygiene in several ways:

1. Lack of Motivation and Energy: Mental health issues such as depression

and anxiety can lead to a lack of motivation and energy, making everyday
tasks like personal hygiene feel overwhelming. For instance, a person
suffering from depression may find it challenging to muster the energy to take
regular showers or brush their teeth.
2. Cognitive Impairment: Mental health conditions can affect cognitive
functioning, leading to forgetfulness or confusion. Individuals might forget to
perform basic hygiene tasks or may not recognize the importance of these
routines due to their impaired mental state.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When explaining the impact of

psychological ill-health, provide detailed examples of how specific conditions
affect daily life. Highlight the connection between mental health and physical
hygiene practices.

Evaluate the impact of teenage suicide on

your family and community at large.
 The impact of teenage suicide on a family and community can be profound
and far-reaching:

1. Emotional Devastation: For the family, the loss of a teenager to suicide

brings immense grief, guilt, and confusion. Parents and siblings may struggle
with feelings of failure and profound sadness, questioning what they could
have done differently to prevent the tragedy. This emotional devastation can
disrupt family dynamics and lead to long-term psychological issues.
2. Community Shock and Stigma: In the broader community, a teenage
suicide can create a ripple effect of shock, sadness, and even fear. Friends,
classmates, and neighbors may feel the loss deeply, leading to a collective
mourning period. Additionally, there may be stigma attached to suicide, which
can hinder open discussions and support for mental health, perpetuating a
cycle of silence and misunderstanding.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When evaluating impacts,

discuss both the immediate and long-term effects on both the family and the
community. Use specific examples to illustrate the depth of the impact.

State five benefits of educating teenagers

about teenage suicides.
1. Awareness and Understanding: Educating teenagers about suicide helps
increase awareness and understanding of the signs and risk factors, enabling
them to recognize when someone may be in distress.
2. Prevention Skills: Providing information on how to seek help and support can
equip teenagers with the skills to prevent suicide, either for themselves or
their peers.
3. Reducing Stigma: Education helps to reduce the stigma associated with
mental health issues and suicide, encouraging open discussions and a more
supportive environment.
4. Empathy and Compassion: Learning about the emotional struggles that can
lead to suicide fosters empathy and compassion among teenagers, promoting
a more caring and supportive community.
5. Resilience Building: Understanding the challenges and developing coping
strategies can help teenagers build resilience and better handle life’s stresses
and pressures.
 Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When stating benefits, explain
how each one contributes to the overall goal of reducing teenage suicides.
Use specific examples to highlight the importance of education.

Critically discuss roles played by the

government in combating teenage suicide.
The government plays several critical roles in combating teenage suicide:

1. Policy Development and Implementation: Governments are responsible for

creating and enforcing policies that promote mental health and suicide
prevention. This includes funding mental health services, establishing crisis
intervention programs, and integrating mental health education into school
curriculums. For instance, the South African National Department of
Health has initiatives aimed at improving mental health services and
accessibility.
2. Public Awareness Campaigns: Governments often launch public awareness
campaigns to educate the public about the signs of suicide and how to seek
help. These campaigns aim to reduce stigma and encourage individuals to
talk about their mental health struggles. The South African Depression and
Anxiety Group (SADAG) collaborates with government bodies to run such
campaigns.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When discussing government

roles, provide specific examples of policies and initiatives. Highlight the impact
of these measures on reducing teenage suicide rates.

Suggest five practical solutions to address

teenage suicide.
1. Implement School-Based Mental Health Programs: Schools should have
dedicated mental health programs that include regular screenings, counseling
services, and mental health education. These programs can help identify at-
risk students and provide them with the support they need.
2. Increase Access to Mental Health Services: Improving access to mental
health services, including hotlines, online counseling, and community clinics,
ensures that teenagers have multiple avenues to seek help.
3. Promote Peer Support Networks: Establishing peer support networks within
schools and communities can provide teenagers with a safe space to share
their struggles and receive support from their peers.
4. Parental Education Programs: Educating parents about the signs of suicide
and how to support their children can help create a supportive home
environment. Workshops and informational materials can be used to equip
parents with the necessary skills.
5. Media and Social Media Guidelines: Developing guidelines for media and
social media platforms on how to responsibly report and discuss suicide can
help prevent the spread of harmful content and encourage positive messaging
around mental health.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When suggesting solutions,

provide detailed explanations and examples of how each solution can be
implemented. Highlight the importance of a multi-faceted approach.

Design a poster on one of the practical

solutions to address teenage suicide.
Since I can’t create images directly here, I’ll describe the elements for a poster
promoting peer support networks to address teenage suicide:

• Title: “You Are Not Alone: Join Our Peer Support Network”
• Visuals: Images of diverse groups of teenagers interacting positively, showing
empathy and support.
• Main Message: “Connecting with peers can make a difference. Join our peer
support network and find a safe space to share your thoughts and feelings.”
• Details: Information about meeting times, locations, and how to join. Include a
helpline number and website for more resources.
• Quotes/Testimonies: Add a few positive testimonies from teenagers who
have benefited from the network.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When designing a poster, make

sure it’s visually appealing and easy to read. Include clear, supportive
messages and practical information on how to get involved.

Give suggestions on how community

members could put pressure on the
 government to address the issues
associated with youth risky behavior.
1. Organize Community Meetings and Forums: Community members can
hold regular meetings to discuss the prevalence of youth risky behavior and
develop collective action plans. Inviting local government officials to these
meetings can ensure that the concerns are heard directly.
2. Petitions and Campaigns: Launching petitions and awareness campaigns
can draw attention to the issue. Collecting signatures and presenting them to
government representatives can demonstrate the community’s unified
demand for action.
3. Collaborate with NGOs: Partnering with non-governmental organizations that
focus on youth and mental health can amplify the community’s voice. NGOs
often have the expertise and resources to advocate effectively for policy
changes.
4. Utilize Media Platforms: Using local media, including newspapers, radio, and
social media, to highlight the issues and the community’s demands can
increase public awareness and pressure the government to act.
5. Lobbying and Advocacy: Forming advocacy groups to engage with local
government representatives regularly can help keep the issue on the political
agenda. These groups can provide evidence-based recommendations and
continuously push for necessary policy changes.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When suggesting actions, focus

on practical and collective efforts that can create significant impact. Highlight
the importance of community solidarity and persistent advocacy.

Indicate your views about social media

romanticizing/normalizing youth risky
behavior.
Social media has a powerful influence on young people’s perceptions and
behaviors. While it can be a platform for positive connections and information
sharing, it also has the potential to romanticize and normalize risky behaviors.

1. Influence of Social Media: Social media platforms often showcase

glamorous lifestyles and risky behaviors without highlighting the
consequences. For instance, posts depicting substance abuse, reckless
 driving, or unsafe sexual practices can make these actions seem attractive
and without repercussions.
2. Normalization of Risky Behavior: When young people see their peers or
influencers engaging in risky behaviors without facing visible negative
outcomes, it can create a false sense of security. They might start to believe
that such behaviors are common and acceptable, leading to increased
likelihood of them engaging in similar actions.

It is crucial for social media users, especially adolescents, to develop critical

thinking skills and discernment to differentiate between reality and the often
curated, misleading representations online. Parents, educators, and
community leaders should also play active roles in guiding young people on
the responsible use of social media.

Note to Life Orientation Grade 11 learners: When discussing the influence

of social media, provide specific examples of how it can romanticize risky
behaviors. Emphasize the importance of critical thinking and responsible
media consumption.

Define the term youth risky behavior.

Explain why anorexia is viewed as an eating disorder.

Describe any six risky situations to which our youth is frequently exposed.

Describe why anorexia is prevalent in young females more than males.

Differentiate between legal and illegal drugs: give one example of each.

Life Orientation Task 3 Project

2023 Memorandum grade 11 pdf
download
South African Youth and Risk Behaviour
Project with Answers
The youth of South Africa are constantly exposed to risks, which may promote
substance use, unprotected sex, unhealthy eating habits and violence. This
behaviour that are usually adopted during their youthful years and often
persist into adulthood, are interrelated, and in most cases, are preventable. In
addition to resulting in morbidity (obesity) and sometimes mortality (death),
this behaviour simultaneously result in many of the social and educational
problems that confront the nation, including failure to complete high school,
unemployment, and crime. In order to protect the youth from these risk
behaviour, it is therefore necessary to educate them at an early age on the
dangers and consequences, as well as to foster health promoting behaviour
and environments.

2nd South African National Youth Risk Behaviour Survey 2014

The Medical Research Council released the results of the 2nd South African
National Youth Risk Behaviour Survey 2014. This nationally representative
survey among 10 270 secondary school learners in grades 8 through 11,
reports on the prevalence of behaviour that place them at risk for disease and
ill health.

Following the first Youth Risk Behaviour Survey (YRBS) in 2008, this survey
investigated behaviour related to infectious diseases (sexual risk behaviour
and hygiene), injury and trauma (violence and traffic safety), mental health
(depression, suicide related behaviour, substance use), and chronic diseases
(nutrition and physical activity).

The following is a summary of the 2014 Youth Risky Behaviour Survey:

Some positive developments

The survey showed significant reductions in risky sexual behaviour. Fewer
school learners had ever had sex. Of those who had sex, the number of
school learners that had two or more sexual partners in their lifetime
significantly reduced, and less learners had one or more sexual partners
during the past three months. Also, of those who ever had sex, the incidence
of sexually transmitted infections significantly reduced, while consistent
condom use increased slightly.

Increasing health threats

The survey showed clear reductions in physical activity, decreased threat to
mental health and unsafe traffic behaviour. A significant increase in physical
inactivity and TV watching for more than 3 hours per day was observed.
Regarding mental health, more learners made one or more suicide attempt
during the past six months Regarding unsafe traffic behaviour, more learners
drove a vehicle after drinking alcohol in the past 30 days and were driven by
someone who had been drinking alcohol in the past 30 days.

Gather data/ information, by doing

research, to write a report with the title:
Risky behaviour amongst South African youth, situations they are exposed to
as well as the impact of their behaviour on themselves and society.

Question: Define the concept risky

behaviour and explain why it is important
for teenagers to investigate and be
knowledgeable about it.
Answer: A Healthy and balanced lifestyle: Means eating a balanced diet,
getting regular exercise, avoid- ing tobacco and drugs and getting plenty of
rest.

Answer: Unsafe attitudes and behaviours: Includes drugs, alcohol use and
experimentation, defiance and lying, moodiness and irritability, engaging in
unsafe sex.

Answer: Risky behaviours and situations: Unprotected sexual activities

that may lead to unwanted teenage pregnancies and Sexually Transmitted
Infections (STIs), strong addiction of drugs and alcohol, involvement in illegal
works for easy earnings, under-age driving, involvement in politi- cal parties
where they might face different threatening situations, unhealthy dietary
behaviours and inadequate physical activity.

Answer: Covid 19: Covid 19, is a disease caused by a new strain of

coronavirus. CO stands for corona and VI for virus and D for disease.
Formerly it was referred to as “2019 novel coronavirus” or 2019- nCoV. It is
also known as as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus.

Types of risk behaviour

 Choose 4 risky situations and describe each situation – give examples
| Choose any 4.

• Personal safety refers to avoidance of possible harmful situations or persons

in your surround- ing. This implies that teenagers should avoid walking alone
at night, getting involved in situa- tions of violence, e.g. drinking or walking
with strangers.
• Road use refers to the methods and measures used to prevent road users
from being killed or seriously injured. Typical road users include pedestrians,
cyclists, motorist, vehicle passengers, etc. Drinking and driving, driving
without a driver’s license – all these put the lives of road users at stake.
• Substance abuse refers to the use of illegal drugs or the use of prescription
or over the counter drugs or alcohol for purposes other than those for which
they are meant to be used or in exces- sive amounts. Substance abuse may
lead to social, physical, emotional and job related prob- lems. Teenagers
smoke dagga, tik, nyaope. At times, they start off by experimenting and end
up addicted. At times the use of cough mixtures with codeine is abused. All
these substances lead to addiction and behaviour that causes self destruction.
• Sexual behaviour, teenage pregnancy and Sexually Transmitted Diseases
(STDs). This is human sexual activity, human sexual practice or human
sexual behaviour in a manner in which humans experience and express their
sexuality and can cause STIs and also lead to unwanted teenage pregnancy.
Teenagers engage in unsafe sexual behaviour and get pregnant, leading to
dropping out of school. It also leads to contracting serious diseases like
HIV/AIDS.
• Teenage suicide is when a young person deliberately ends their own life.
• Hygiene and dietary behaviour encompasses food choice and motives,
feeding practices, dieting and eating related problems such as obesity, eating
disorders and feeding disorders and hygienic processes. Teenagers, at times,
because of low self esteem, find themselves wanting to lose weight and
engage in methods of weight loss that can lead to anorexia. They later get de-
pressed and moody. Some become obese also because of psychological
challenges.
• Peer pressure is the direct influence on people by peers, or the effect on an
individual who is encouraged and wants to follow their peers by changing their
attitudes, values or behaviours to conform to those of the influencing group or
individual. Negative peer pressure leads to unsafe and risky behaviours like
substance abuse and unsafe sex practices.
 Discuss 3 factors that may cause teenagers
to engage in each of the risky behaviours
and situations chosen
• Brain power; they are impulsive and make emotional decisions without
thinking about the consequences, lack of experience.
• Unhealthy optimism; Teens think that negative outcomes will never happen
to them and neg- ative consequences don’t deter them.
• Adventure; boredom causes them to look for excitement, that is mostly
detrimental to their safety.
• Peer pressure; research shows that risk taking among teens doubles when
peers are around. Some teens want to be accepted and fit in – they want to
impress their friends. Read: Why choosing wrong friends may subject you to
unrealistic life
• Media; movies and television project a wide range of risky behaviour in
glamorous and admira- ble ways.
• Poor self-esteem; a young person with a low self-esteem may not be
assertive to say NO and find himself involved in risky behaviour. Such
individuals are easily swayed to get involved in wrong doing.

How do these risky behaviours impact on

teenagers and their communities?
Youth may bunk school, stealing to satisfy behaviours like substance abuse
and this increasing crime rate. Substance abuse can lead to violence and the
addict can be a threat to both himself and society.

This behaviour can cause anxiety, mental stress and unhappiness among
people. This health problem causes health issues for the individual. Risk
behaviours lead to personal, social and economic problems and are
associated with mortality, namely, through accidents, violence and crime.

Suggest and discuss solutions to risky

behaviours
• Good communication in the family
• Engage in positive activities such as sport clubs, art clubs, etc
• Serve or volunteer in your community
• Be clear of the consequences of the risk behaviour
• Talk about values at home and in the community
• Have good role models in the community

Impact of Covid 19 on a healthy and

balanced lifestyle under the following
topics:
Answers: Loss of income and poverty:
Covid 19 caused a lot of job losses because of the heavy lockdown.
Households lost income and this led to families not being able to fulfil basic
needs like food. This put a lot of pressure on families who were unable to
provide for their children. Because of lack of provision, teenagers lack coping
skills and get depressed. It can also lead to drug abuse as a coping skill. Loss
of income and poverty are related. It has an impact on the quality of the lives
of of youth. Some teenagers may engage in criminal activities to get food.

Cultural and religious practices.

Attending church, for many families, is important as it promotes values within
families. Church attendance was prohibited during hard lockdown. There was
no alternative place to go to for spiritual upliftment and communities lost the
opportunities of gathering. Cultural practices like celebrations of weddings
and, for Xhosa culture, circumcisions were prohibited. This resulted in more
loneliness and hopelessness. Teenagers and their families were unable to
manage or cope with these situations.