Practical Solutions on How any Five of the Youth Risk Behaviours can be Addressed or Reduced

On this page we suggest practical solutions on how any five of the youth risk behaviours can be addressed or reduced:

Youth risk behaviours, ranging from unsafe attitudes to physical inactivity, have become pressing concerns in today’s society. These behaviours can lead to long-term health issues and socio-economic repercussions. However, through targeted interventions and practical solutions, these risks can be substantially reduced.

Youth Risky Behaviour: Definition and Examples

Suggest Practical Solutions on How any Five of the Youth Risk Behaviours can be Addressed or Reduced

Here are five youth risk behaviours and pragmatic ways to address or diminish their prevalence:

1. Unprotected Sexual Activities:
   • Issue: Engaging in unprotected sexual activities can lead to unwanted teenage pregnancies and the transmission of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).
   • Solution: Education and awareness campaigns should be amplified, emphasising the importance of using protection during sexual activities. Schools and communities should also provide access to contraceptives and offer comprehensive sexual education programs, ensuring teens are well-informed.
2. Strong Addiction to Drugs and Alcohol:
   • Issue: Experimentation with drugs and alcohol can evolve into addiction, affecting one’s health, academics, and social relationships.
   • Solution: Implement early intervention programmes in schools to educate learners about the dangers of drug and alcohol use. Establish support groups and counselling services for those struggling with addiction and promote drug-free recreational activities for youth engagement.
3. Involvement in Illegal Activities for Quick Earnings:
   • Issue: The allure of quick money can lead some youths into illegal activities, jeopardising their future.
   • Solution: Create mentorship programs where successful individuals from the community guide the youth. Highlight the long-term benefits of education and legitimate careers. Additionally, create job opportunities and training programs that provide an alternative to illegal earnings.
4. Under-age Driving:
   • Issue: Under-age driving can result in accidents due to a lack of experience and maturity.
   • Solution: Parents and guardians should be more vigilant about securing their car keys. There should also be stricter penalties for under-age driving offences, coupled with awareness campaigns highlighting the dangers and consequences of this behaviour.
5. Unhealthy Dietary Behaviours and Inadequate Physical Activity:
   • Issue: Poor dietary choices combined with a sedentary lifestyle can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other health complications.
   • Solution: Schools should offer nutrition education as part of their curriculum. The promotion of active lifestyles, like joining sports clubs or engaging in daily physical activities, should be encouraged. Communities can also play a role by organising health and fitness events or by providing safe spaces for exercise, such as parks and recreational facilities.

Six Risky Situations to Which Our Youth is Frequently Exposed to: South Africa

Addressing these behaviours necessitates a combined effort from educators, parents, communities, and the youth themselves. By recognising the issues and implementing these solutions, we can forge a brighter, healthier future for our young generation.

Also Read:

• Three Government Strategies to Raise Awareness about Youth Involvement in Risky Behavior
• Three Influences of Self-Esteem on Teenagers Participating in Risky Behavior
• Ways in which the youth could seek support from their parent when they find themselves in a risky situation
• Youth Risky Behaviour: Definition and Examples