Provide students with Handout #8: “Social and Emotional Changes During Adolescence”.

Explain how the physical changes that occur due to hormonal changes also affect their emotional state and development as a sexual being. Talk about the possible changes that will begin to occur in their lives relative to social and relationship issues. Explain that all kids go through these changes at different times and in different ways.

Explain to them that using the skills we have discussed in earlier lessons will assist them in making healthy choices. This would be a great time to review the skills (setting goals, communication skills, self-worth, self discovery and setting boundaries) to make sure the students have a firm grasp on the concepts.

Develop a list for class discussion about possible situations they could find themselves in that could threaten their health.

Possible answers:

• A friend gives them a cigarette.
• They take a joy ride in a friend’s car.
• They are talked into to having sex with someone.

At this point begin the discussion of what AIDS is and how it can be transmitted.

Ask them to think about how using good communications skills can keep them out of these situations and out of unhealthy circumstances. Then ask them to think about how establishing good standards for themselves can do the same. Go through the same exercise with developing good self-worth.