Question

Describe two external stressors that are unique to adolescents. Discuss what risk-taking behaviors may result from the external stressors and what support or coping mechanism can be introduced.

Answer 1

Two external stressors that are unique to adolescents are :-

1. Peer /social stressors -there are a number of peer and social stressors that can contribute to depression and suicidal behaviors. Research shows that friends are the first chosen sources of support for teenagers. Therefore, it is important that teenagers know how to recognize signs of depression and suicidal behaviors in their friends and talk to them in a helpful way, as well as know where to go for help.

Examples of Peer / Social Stressors

Stressful life events often precede a suicide. Often the life event occurs at a time when the person is struggling, turning this life event into “the straw that breaks the camel’s back.”

A rejection − such as a break-up with a girlfriend or boyfriend

Disciplinary crisis − could involve legal problems, or a crisis at home or school

Humiliation − being dishonored in some way

Gossip / cliques

Teasing / bullying

Impressing others

Peer pressure

Online social life

2. Substance abuse is the second major risk factor for suicide. Studies have suggested that approximately half of people who commit suicide are under the influence of drugs and / or alcohol at the time of their deaths. In fact, recent research shows that heavy marijuana use and binge drinking increased the likelihood of depression among boys, while any experimentation of alcohol or drugs increased the likelihood of depression among girls. This is a significant finding since major depression is the major risk factor for suicide.

The risk taking behaviour which the adolescents do are :-

- use of drugs

- drinking and driving

- unprotected sex

- smuggling etc

To cope up with this we have go to the root or base of these adolescents that are their parents . The parents should have a friendly behaviour with their children so that they share everything with you . Give time for the child to spend with the family , Providing books , video games ,smartphones etc don't provide the care that a parent should give instead it deviates the child to engage in activities which are against the society and makes threat for them . For adolescents everything is there peer , but it's the duty of the parents to see whether their child in good hands or not ,with whom they company etc . After the parents , school plays a vital role role in developing a good future .

It's the base which is needed to be taken care of first because it leads the child ahead to behave in a manner what they have learned from their families .