Humanities Homework Help

Discussion (1a):The Case of David’s Coming-Out Process

The process of declaring a homosexual identity is often referred to as “coming out.” This is not always an easy process. Some adolescents may feel like they have to pretend to feel things because they do not to fit in with their social group, family, or community. They might also feel that they must deny who they are or hide an important part of themselves for fear of prejudice, discrimination, rejection, or violence. Because it may not be easy to find someone to talk to, confide in, or trust, adolescents may experience a number of emotional problems such as anxiety and depression. It is important to acquire knowledge about how best to assist adolescents facing this decision.

In this Discussion, you consider a case study that portrays issues related to sexual orientation in adolescents.

To prepare, consider this scenario:

David is the center fielder on the Jefferson High varsity baseball team. His father, David Sr., is the varsity soccer coach at the same school, and his mom is a nurse. He has a younger sister whom he describes as “perfect.” He sees the school social worker to get help with what is bothering him. He tells the social worker that he is gay, but no one knows because he “acts straight when around his teammates and others in school.” He would like to express how he really feels but does not know how it will be perceived by his family and peers.

Post:

• Identify potential biological, psychological, and social effects on David’s development as a result of his sexual orientation.
• Explain development and ecological factors to be considered when serving David.
• Determine the most important message David needs to understand at this point in his life span.

• Explain how a theoretical approach correlates with the message your colleague determined for working with David.
• Discussion (1b): Sexual Decision Making –Adolescent sexual decision making is a very complex phenomenon. It is a time when individuals may become interested in more intimate relationships and experimentation. During this stage, adolescents may contemplate whether to engage in intercourse or abstain from sexual relations. Many factors may influence an adolescent’s sexual decision making including biological, social, cultural, familial, and experiential factors. Making good decisions and responsible choices about sexual activity during adolescence can have immediate and lasting implications on an individual’s overall health outcomes. For this reason, it is important for social workers to possess an understanding of the context of decision making and social influences as well as educate adolescents on appropriate support programs available to them.For this Discussion, you explore the contemporary influences on adolescent sexual decision making.To prepare: Find one example of an influence on adolescent sexual decision making in contemporary society that is directed at adolescent audiences. Examples may include websites, magazines, music, film, television, or advertising.
• Post:
  • Explain how a contemporary influence makes either a positive or a negative contribution to peer influence on adolescent sexual decision making.
  • Analyze risk factors associated with the contemporary influences you have chosen.
  • Recommend two alternate sources of information or supports your colleague could use in a social work setting.