318 Chapter 12 Health and Fitness
Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
As you can see, it is important
to surround yourself with people
who will support you in a positive
manner. Some young people feel
they are lacking such a support
group. If you feel this way, try to
connect with some caring adults.
Remember that adults other than
parents can help you. An older
sibling, a grandparent, a favorite
teacher, a religious leader, a
neighbor, or your employer are all
possible candidates. Close friends
should also be an important part
of your support group.
Reading
Review
1. List three factors that can
contribute to a quality life
and give an example of each.
2. Identify three roadblocks to
personal development.
3. Give an example of a positive
risk and an example of a
risk that can have negative
consequences. Explain your
answers.
4. Give three characteristics of a
supportive relationship.
R R R
1 1 Li t th
Life Skills
How to Develop a Social Support
Network
Because supportive family, friends, and
coworkers are such an important part of your life,
it’s never too soon to cultivate these important relationships.
A social support network is different than a support group,
which exists to help a group of people with the same problem
cope with it. You can create your own social support network
any way you choose.
A good place to start is by thinking about the activities
you enjoy and values that are most important to you. For
instance, if you love to ski, take the local weekend ski bus
to your nearest ski area, start a ski club at school, or join a
competitive ski team. If your spiritual life is a priority, join or
start a youth group based on your faith. You will meet other
people who enjoy the same things you do, which is a great
basis for building and maintaining an ongoing, supportive
network of friends.
Some other ideas of groups to join—or start, if there are
none in your community—can include
•
a book club or creative writing group
•
a hiking, kayaking, basketball (or other sport) group/team
•
a movie or video group
•
a group based on a hobby, such as building model planes
or making quilts
•
a rotating cooking or dinner group
•
a science or inventor’s club