Values & decision-making
Give an example of a value and how it could affect a decision you make.
[open-ended]
True or false: using bluelight-emitting devices like smartphones and tablets before bed can make it harder to fall asleep.
True! (Can anyone explain why?)
_________ relationships break boundaries; _________ relationships respect boundaries.
Unhealthy; healthy
What part of the brain is responsible for impulsive decisions and behaviors?
The amygdala
True or false: The aerosol you breathe in from nicotine vape products contains heavy metals (which are toxic to humans!).
True.
Your peers at school all wear baggy jeans, and now you want to wear baggy jeans. This is an example of _____________.
Social influence
Vaccines don't just protect the person who's vaccinated. When enough people are vaccinated in a community, it helps protect those who have weakened immune systems and are at greater risk of getting seriously sick or even die from a virus. This is called _______________.
Herd immunity. Getting vaccinated doesn't just benefit you -- it benefits everyone.
Yes or no: if you notice that a friend isn't being treated well by a romantic partner or someone else they're close with, it is ok to step in and ask them if they need support.
Yes. You can also talk to a parent, teacher, or other trusted adult about how you can help.
What part of the brain is responsible for controlling impulses, planning, and more logical decision-making?
The prefrontal cortex
True or false: Tobacco is addictive.
Give an example of how you can use your prefrontal cortex to make a good decision.
[open-ended]
Can antibiotics treat the flu? Why or why not?
No. The flu is a virus, and antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections.
What are TWO signs of an unhealthy relationship?
Intensity
Possessiveness
Deflecting responsibility
Manipulation
Isolation
Sabotage
Belittling
Guilting
Volatility
Betrayal
You ski, and you just set a new personal record. It feels so good. What is the neurotransmitter that makes you feel good?
Dopamine. It motivates us to do things that lead to positive outcomes; it makes us feel good after accomplishing something.
List three SHORT-term consequences of vaping nicotine.
Dizziness, headaches, addiction, nose bleed, coughing, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
What is one thing that we learned about that can make it hard for teens to make good decisions?
Social/peer influence, developing brain
What are THREE ways to reduce the chances of getting a cold or the flu?
Get vaccinated (against the flu)!
Wash your hands (for at least 20 seconds!), try not to touch your face! Your eyes, nose, and mouth are the easiest entry points for viruses.
Get solid sleep. It strengthens your immune system.
Eat well. Doing so also strengthens your immune system.
Drink water and exercise. Again, these things boost your immune system.
Manage stress. Stress weakens your immune system!
Be mindful of your environment and improve air quality if you can (open a window, use an air purifier)
Keep surfaces clean, or at least be mindful of how clean surfaces are
What are THREE signs of a healthy relationship?
Trust
Honesty
Independence
Respect
Equality
Kindness
Healthy conflict
Comfortable pace
Taking responsibility
Fun
Using alcohol and other drugs feels good. One of the reasons it feels good is because it tricks the brain into releasing a ______ amount of dopamine.
Rates of youth nicotine vaping have ________ since 2019.
Decreased! Now that we know more about vaping, young people (and adults, too!) are more likely to know the risks of vaping, and as a result, rates are down.
How can you stop yourself from making an impulsive decision?
Use the DECIDE model; use your prefrontal cortex; find a way to take some space from the situation and have a minute to yourself to think.
Teens need between 8 and 10 hours of sleep per night. What are THREE ways to help yourself get enough sleep?
Set a bedtime that is early enough to get at least 9 hours of sleep.
Establish a relaxing bedtime routine.
Make your bedroom quiet. Keep the temperature cool.
Limit exposure to bright light.
Turn off electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bedtime.
Don’t eat a large meal before bedtime.
Avoid consuming caffeine, especially in the afternoon or evening.
Engage in physical activity every day.
Limit after-school naps to less than 30 minutes; don’t nap after 4pm.
Get bright light in the morning when you wake up.
Stick to your sleep schedule, even on weekends!
What are some things you can do if your boyfriend or girlfriend isn't treating you well?
Talk to them; if they don't listen, end the relationship; seek help and guidance from friends, parents, and other support people in your life.
Your _________ develops before your _________.
Amygdala; prefrontal cortex.
How do tobacco companies target young people? Why do they target young people?
Advertising that's appealing to youth, social media product placement, flavored products, colorful packaging/products.
Tobacco companies WANT teens to get addicted so that they can make money; it's all about profits, even if it comes at the expense of teens' health and well-being. They need to trap the next generation of users.