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Explain how individual and sociocultural factors can adversely affect the health of young people - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 27 - 2016 - Paper 1
Question 27
Explain how individual and sociocultural factors can adversely affect the health of young people. Evaluate government strategies or actions that target major health... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain how individual and sociocultural factors can adversely affect the health of young people - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 27 - 2016 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain how individual and sociocultural factors can adversely affect the health of young people.
Answer
Young people experience overall good health; however, certain individual and sociocultural factors can lead to adverse health outcomes. Individual factors include:
- Predetermined Genetic Makeup: Genetic predispositions can result in various health issues, influencing how young people manage their health.
- Personal Skills and Attitudes: A young person's skills in problem-solving and their general attitude can impact their health choices. For instance, young people with poor coping mechanisms may resort to unhealthy behaviors.
- Influence of Peers: Young males, for example, often face higher risks on the road due to peer pressure, leading to behaviors such as reckless driving.
Sociocultural factors also play a significant role:
- Family Environment: A young person's family dynamics, including support structures, can greatly affect their mental health. Lack of familial support can lead to depression and anxiety.
- Media Influence: Social media often promotes unrealistic standards and unhealthy behaviors, such as poor dietary choices, which may lead to obesity and low self-esteem.
- Cultural Norms: Young people belonging to certain cultures might face stigma regarding mental health issues, leading to a reluctance to seek help.
In summary, both individual and sociocultural factors interact to influence young people's health negatively.
Step 2
Evaluate government strategies or actions that target major health issues affecting young people.
Answer
Governments have implemented various strategies to address health issues among young people. These include:
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Public Health Campaigns: Many countries use mass media campaigns aimed at educating young people about the risks of substance abuse, unhealthy eating, and physical inactivity. For instance, campaigns promoting physical activity can counteract the rise in obesity among the youth.
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School-Based Health Programs: Schools often provide health education and counseling services, helping students to make informed choices about their health. Programs might include mental health awareness initiatives, which aim to reduce stigma and encourage students to seek help.
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Policy Changes: Implementing regulations like age restrictions on alcohol and tobacco sales directly impacts young people's health by reducing their exposure to harmful substances.
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Community Engagement: Programs that involve community stakeholders help create supportive environments for youth, promoting physical activities and healthy eating. For example, local councils may enhance recreational facilities to encourage active lifestyles.
Overall, these strategies aim to create a comprehensive approach to support the health of young people by addressing both prevention and treatment aspects.