MANAGEMENT IN LIVING, CONCISE NOTES FOR SENIOR HIGH SCHOOLS 1, 2 & 3

This post, provide reader with the following objective; readers should be able to:

• Explain the concept and scope of Management in Living.

• Describe the importance of Management in Living.

• Identify the opportunities for careers in Management in Living.
• Describe signs of reproductive growth in adolescents.
• Examine the consequences of the reproductive growth of the adolescent

• Examine the social, emotional, mental growth, and changes that take place in the adolescent.
• Explain menstrual cycle and menstruation in girls and its implications.

Concept, Scope, Importance of Management in Living and Opportunities for Careers

The Concept of Management in Living

In everyday living, individuals and families require certain things such as good food, clothing, shelter, medical care, education and transport. In order to satisfy these needs, the individuals and families require resources such as, money, energy, time, etc.

In living, management is involved in every aspect of life e.g., the problem of feeding clothing and the use of income are all matters of management. These resources are scarce or limited and thus there is the need for individuals and families to make decisions.

Individuals and families have life goals. The decisions these individuals and families make on daily basis as they go through life to achieve these goals is referred to as management in living.

Management in living is therefore concerned with decisions individuals and families make as they go through life to achieve their life goals OR Management in living is concerned with the decisions individuals and families make in their life process in order to achieve their goals.

Scope of Management in Living

Since individuals and families need are varied or wide in scope, the study of management in living covers a wide area such as

I. Marriage and family living,

II. Family housing and housing environment,

III. Adolescents related issues,

IV. Financial management for future financial security,

V. Consumer education and consumer skills.

Importance of Management in Living

It helps individuals and families to learn how to use their limited resources wisely so as to satisfy as many of their needs as possible.
It contributes to the understanding of issues that affect family and family living. Knowledge acquired in management in living will help individuals and families identify such issues and deal with them. Thus, making family life and living better and more comfortably.
It helps individuals and families to develop skills for living. Skills individuals acquire through management in living include resource management, child care, cleaning and financial management. These skills so acquired will help make living comfortable, safe and simple.
It also provides the basis for further training for job opportunities. Individuals who acquire knowledge in management in living could go for further training to become professional teachers, credit advisors, interior decorators, housekeepers, etc.
It helps individuals and families appreciate and recognize the relationship between daily living and the environment in which they live, that is both family and the wider environment

Opportunities for Career Development

The main objective of management in living is to help individuals and families develop skills for living and to equip students for job opportunities or careers, some of which may require higher education. These careers include:

i. Teaching: Teachers in this area, teach home management, family living and child development in schools. With additional training in home management, graduates can teach in nursery schools. So those who study management in living can be employed to teach.

ii. Interior decoration / Designing: People in this area, plan and decorate interiors of homes, hotels, hospitals, offices, etc. The study of Management in living can therefore help individuals become interior decorators.

iii. Child care: People in this area work in Child Care Centers. These centers are where parents bring their children for care while they are busy. This has led to the establishment of preschools in almost all cities and towns in Ghana.

iv. Financial counseling: Individuals who study management in living can become financial counsellors counseling individuals and families to manage their income and live within their means and avoid needless expenditure.

v. Dry cleaning and laundering: The dry cleaners and launderers, dry-clean and launder clothing articles for people. A home economics graduate can earn a living by setting up a laundry and/or dry-cleaning service.

vi. Child development specialist.

vii. Work in the housing development sector.

viii. Credit advisors: It also helps people to become Credit advisors in financial institutions and consumer credit companies.

ix. Nursery school attendants: With further training, the senior high school graduate of home management can become a nursery school attendant.

x. Environment management counseling: Counseling people on how to live a good, healthy and happy life by maintaining and adhering to good environmental practices.

EXAMINATION QUESTIONS

1. Explain the concept and scope of management in living

2. Identify and explain areas in management in living for which careers may be developed

3. Describe the importance of management in living

4. State four areas or scope of management in living

5. Discuss the career opportunities in Management in living

Developmental Changes and Adolescent Sexualities

Sexuality

The sex of a person refers to whether that person is male or female. It also stands for sexual intercourse between a male and female. Sexuality on the other hand has to do with how we see ourselves as boys and girls, men and women, that is being aware of yourself as a sexual being as well as how we feel and think about our body.

Some Aspects of Sexuality

(i) Love and affection: This is how individuals express their love and affection for others.

(ii) Intimacy: This is close sharing of feelings or thoughts which are not necessarily physical.

(iii) Relationships: These are the different ways individuals express their feelings to others.

(iv) Gender Roles: This refers to the different ways individuals express their sex as male and female.

(v) Genitals: This refers to the physical parts of our body that define sex and are also important on sexual pleasure and reproduction.

(vi) Body images: This is about how individuals look and feel about themselves and how they appear to others.

(vii) Social roles: The role of people plays as part of a social group.

(viii) Sexual arousal: Involves a number of different things that make us get sexually turned on.

Meaning of Adolescence

Adolescence is the period of growing up. It is that stage in every person's life that lies between the end of childhood and the beginning of adulthood. This period of development is between the ages of 10-19 years. It is a period of preparation for becoming a parent, and a citizen. It has been described as a storm much longer and much darker in some cases than in others through which all must pass.

Adolescence is therefore a period of transition, growth, exploration and opportunities. It is also marked by changes in the body, the mind, the emotions, and the social attitudes. People within the stage of adolescence experience rapid physical and behavioral changes at puberty.

Puberty is the stage during which the adolescent grows into a man or woman. That is, it is a narrow span of time which marks the beginning of sexual maturation.

Adolescent is a boy or girl who is passing through the adolescence period. The period is marked with body and emotional changes.

Reproductive Growth and Development

The early part of adolescence is a stage of heightened emotions. The transition from childhood to adolescence is often associated with physical, emotional and social changes.

Physical Changes in Male and Females and Behavioral Changes in Adolescence

Changes that Occur During Adolescence.

Physical Changes in Boys

The physical changes that occur in boys during adolescence include:

i. The sex organs develop into maturity. That is, they experience growth or enlargement of the testes and penis.

ii. They experience rapid growth in height, weight and increase muscle mass.

iii. They grow facial and body hair. That is, they begin to grow hair on the armpits, pubic areas and other parts of the body.

iv. They experience enlargement of the chest, long legs and arms and stronger muscles.

v. They also experience the break of the voice. That is, they develop larger vocal cords and deep voice.

vi. They may experience involuntary ejaculations or erections during sleep (they may have wet dreams). Wet dreams mean they wake up to find their genital areas wet as a result of discharges from their penis.

Physical Changes in Girls

Physical changes that occur in girls during adolescence include:

Development of breast. That is their breast begin to appear
It is during this period that the rounding out of figure occurs. They therefore develop flattened stomach, slimy waist and wider hips.
On-set of menstrual cycle
Rapid growth in height and weight
Development or maturing of sex organs
Growth of hair on armpits and pubic areas vii. Broadening of hips.
Clitoris and labia increase in size.
Development of sweat glands
Nipples become larger and darker

Physical Changes that are Common to Both Male and Females (Boys and Girls)

The physical changes that are common to both male and female during adolescence include:

i. Growth in height and weight

ii. Maturation of reproductive system or organs

iii. Redistribution of body weight

iv. The appearance of the secondary sex characteristics.

Consequence of the Reproductive Growth of the Adolescents

Adolescents become conscious of their bodies or appearance. While some become excited about the changes in their physical appearance e.g., appearance of breast, some are often very shy.
Boys get wet dreams. Occasionally, they imagine themselves in bed with girls they seem to be strongly attached to and thus lead to wet dreams.
They get attracted to the opposite sex. They begin to be interested in members of the opposite sex and begin to enter into relationships. They develop emotional attachment to the opposite sex.
General interactions. Adolescents begin to feel the desire to associate or socialize with his or her peers either at home or school or in the neighborhood.
They have the capacity to reproduce.
They have heightened sex drive as a result of hormonal secretions and actions.
Hormonal actions lead to development of body odors, eczema, pimples etc.

Good Hygiene for the Adolescent

Adolescents should bath regularly, at least twice a day to wash away perspiration that comes out of the pores.
Adolescent should not squeeze pimples but rather wash their face with mild soap. They should not bleach to get rid of pimples because the chemicals used for bleaching are dangerous to the skin.
Shave or trim pubic hair and armpit hair to prevent the development of bad smell and from trapping sweat.
They should always wear clean under garment to avoid or prevent bacteria from multiplying and causing diseases on their bodies.

Social, Emotional and Mental Growth and Changes in Adolescence

Social Changes

Interact differently from when they were younger. They begin to talk like adults. They begin to question their parent's authority as they strive for independence. They think they are adults and can therefore manage their own affairs.
They feel shy. Some of the girls feel shy about their physical development and appearance e.g., development of breast and menstruation. The boys have to cope with changes in their voice, bigger penis and testicles and the discharge of semen.
Drawn more to peer groups of their own age. Adolescence are very concerned about impressions they make on their peers. They attempt to gain popularity and become a member of a prestigious group. Opportunities should be provided for the interaction by the family and other social institutions e.g., school, church etc.
They become aware of themselves and begin to ask for the advice of other adults, teachers, neighbors, friends etc.
Expected to take more responsibilities at home and school. At home, they are expected to clean the house, wash father's clothes, water the garden, etc. They should be encouraged to participate in domestic chores.

Emotional Changes

The adolescent begins to experience heightened feelings and may be very sensitive and reacts strongly to events. Emotions such as love, fear, hatred, anger, joy and frustration are strong.

He/she may experience a variety of the human feelings e.g., sadness, embarrassment if teased, intense happiness, need for companionship may become intense.
There may be an increase in sexual awareness and urge.
iii. Adolescents may be aggressive, become antagonistic to authority and defensive about their own actions.
Adolescents’ attention shifts to their peers and boyfriends or girlfriends.
Adolescent experiment especially with their sexuality.

Mental Changes

Adolescents begin to reason and think in more abstract terms.
Ready to test new ideas and think through things for themselves
Begin to make realistic plans
May think of consequences of actions they may take
Develop the ability to reflect on the results of their decisions and learn from the outcomes.
Tend to reason more and analyze suggestions from others.

Problems and Challenges of Adolescence: Navigating the Teenage Years

Adolescence is a pivotal stage of human development characterized by rapid physical, emotional, and social changes. During this time, teenagers face numerous challenges that can impact their well-being and shape their future. Understanding these problems can help parents, educators, and society provide the support adolescents need to navigate this critical period successfully.

Key Challenges Faced by Adolescents

Identity Formation and Self-Esteem Issues:
Adolescents are in a constant quest to discover who they are, leading to questions about identity and self-worth. This quest for self-identity often results in self-esteem issues as teens compare themselves to peers and media portrayals. Psychology Today discusses how identity formation is crucial during adolescence, affecting long-term personal development.
Peer Pressure: Peer pressure is a significant challenge for teenagers as they seek acceptance and validation from their peers. This pressure can lead to risky behaviors, including substance abuse, smoking, and other negative influences. Understanding how to resist peer pressure is crucial for maintaining individuality and making healthy decisions. Verywell Family offers insights on how teens can cope with peer pressure.
Academic Stress: The transition from childhood to adolescence brings increased academic expectations and responsibilities. Teens often face pressure to perform well in school, which can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout. Balancing academics with extracurricular activities is a constant challenge for many adolescents. The American Psychological Association provides statistics and solutions on managing academic stress in teenagers.
Emotional and Mental Health Issues: Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and eating disorders due to hormonal changes and external pressures. Recognizing and addressing these issues early is essential to prevent long-term consequences. According to the World Health Organization, 10-20% of adolescents globally experience mental health conditions, underscoring the need for early intervention.
Body Image Concerns: Body image issues are prevalent during adolescence due to physical changes and societal beauty standards. Adolescents may develop an unhealthy relationship with their bodies, leading to disorders like anorexia or bulimia. Encouraging positive body image and self-acceptance is vital for adolescents' mental health. The National Eating Disorders Association offers resources for understanding and promoting healthy body image among teens.
Technology and Social Media Influence: In today's digital age, adolescents are highly influenced by technology and social media. While these platforms offer opportunities for connection, they can also lead to cyberbullying, addiction, and unrealistic expectations. Understanding how to use technology responsibly is crucial for maintaining mental health and social relationships. Common Sense Media provides guidelines and resources for healthy technology use among teenagers.
Family Dynamics and Communication: Adolescents often experience strained relationships with family members as they strive for independence. Effective communication between parents and teens is crucial for fostering trust and understanding during this period. Family dynamics can significantly impact adolescents' emotional well-being and decision-making processes. The Child Mind Institute discusses the impact of family dynamics on adolescent development.
Sexual and Reproductive Health: Adolescence is a time of sexual maturation and exploration. Teens may face challenges in understanding sexual health, relationships, and consent. Comprehensive sex education is essential to empower adolescents with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their sexual health. UNICEF emphasizes the importance of providing adolescents with accurate sexual and reproductive health information.
Substance Abuse and Risky Behaviors: The curiosity to experiment often leads adolescents to engage in risky behaviors, including drug and alcohol use. These behaviors can have severe health implications and long-term consequences. Preventing substance abuse involves education, awareness, and supportive environments for adolescents. SAMHSA provides resources for preventing substance abuse among teenagers.
Career and Future Planning: Adolescents are often pressured to make crucial decisions about their careers and future paths, leading to stress and uncertainty. Providing guidance and support in career planning can help adolescents explore their interests and make informed choices. Career Vision offers resources for career exploration and planning for teenagers.
Adjustment: They have problems adjusting to their physical changes. For instance, the girl has to cope with enlarged breast and menstruation. The boys cope with changes of voice and bigger penis. They are often uncomfortable, clumsy and anxious.
Status: They want to behave like adults, yet they are not fully adults. Boys may try to smoke and girls may try putting on make-ups.

Strategies for Supporting Adolescents

Supporting adolescents as they navigate these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that includes:

Open Communication: Encouraging open and honest communication between adolescents and trusted adults can help them express their feelings and seek guidance.

Education and Awareness: Providing education on topics like mental health, body image, and substance abuse can empower adolescents with the knowledge to make informed decisions.

Supportive Environment: Creating a supportive environment at home, school, and in the community can foster positive development and resilience in adolescents.

Access to Resources: Ensuring access to mental health services, counseling, and educational resources is crucial for addressing adolescents' needs.

Menstruation

Menstruation: The monthly flow of blood through the birth canal or vaginal passage of a female. Menstruation is nature's way of preparing the female body for pregnancy and child birth.

The process of menstruation i.e., menstrual cycle occurs once each month unless there is pregnancy, illness or when the woman reaches menopause. Menstrual cycle varies for each person (a cycle of 21-30 days).

The release of the ovum is called ovulation which occurs between 12 and 16 days before the next menstrual bleeding. During this period the girl can become pregnant by engaging in sexual intercourse.

The egg normally travels down the womb through the fallopian tubes during which it hopes to be fertilized. It however dies if it is not fertilized within 12-24 hours after ovulation.

Changes occur in the body during menstruation e.g., enlargement of breast, breasts become tender with darkened nipple.

Most girls start their menstrual period between the ages of 10 and 16 and it continues till the age of 40 — 50 years when the woman reaches menopause. The flow of blood last between 3 and 7 days. Some women may have longer or shorter periods.

Menopause is a period where a woman no longer menstruates and is no longer able to get pregnant naturally.

Signs of Pre-Menstruation: What to Expect Before Your Period

Pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common experience for many women and girls in the days leading up to their menstrual period. Understanding the signs of pre-menstruation can help you manage symptoms more effectively and maintain your well-being.

Common Signs of Pre-Menstruation

Pre-menstrual symptoms typically occur one to two weeks before menstruation and can vary in intensity and duration. Here are the most common signs to watch for:

Mood Swings:
Mood changes are among the most noticeable signs of pre-menstruation. Women may experience irritability, anxiety, sadness, or sudden emotional outbursts due to hormonal fluctuations. This study on mood disorders and the menstrual cycle provides a detailed analysis of how hormone changes affect mood.
Breast Tenderness: Many women experience breast tenderness or swelling before their period. This occurs due to an increase in estrogen and progesterone levels, causing the breast tissue to retain more water and become more sensitive.
Bloating and Water Retention: Hormonal changes can lead to bloating and water retention, making you feel heavier or more swollen than usual. This common pre-menstrual symptom can be managed with a balanced diet and staying hydrated. Healthline offers tips on managing menstrual bloating.
Acne and Skin Changes: An increase in androgen hormones can lead to acne flare-ups or oily skin before menstruation. These hormonal shifts can stimulate the sebaceous glands, increasing oil production and leading to skin changes.
Fatigue and Sleep Disturbances: Feeling tired or experiencing sleep disturbances is a frequent pre-menstrual symptom. Hormonal changes, coupled with physical discomfort, can contribute to poor sleep quality and increased fatigue.
Food Cravings or Changes in Appetite: Many women experience cravings for specific foods, particularly those high in carbohydrates and sugars, as a result of hormonal shifts. Understanding these cravings can help manage dietary intake effectively.
Cramps and Back Pain: Mild cramps or lower back pain may begin in the days leading up to menstruation. These cramps are typically caused by uterine contractions as the body prepares for menstruation.
Headaches or Migraines: Some women experience headaches or migraines due to hormonal fluctuations, particularly drops in estrogen levels, before their period.
Digestive Changes: Hormonal shifts can also affect the digestive system, leading to symptoms like constipation or diarrhea before menstruation begins.
Breast Tenderness and Swelling: Increased levels of estrogen and progesterone can cause breast tenderness, swelling, or pain.

Managing Pre-Menstrual Symptoms

Understanding pre-menstrual signs can help you take proactive measures to alleviate symptoms. Here are some tips:

Maintain a Balanced Diet: Eating a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can help manage symptoms and keep your energy levels stable. Foods high in magnesium and calcium can be particularly beneficial.

Exercise Regularly: Physical activity can reduce stress, boost mood, and help alleviate bloating. Engaging in regular exercise can also help balance hormones naturally.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps reduce bloating and keeps your body functioning optimally.

Use Stress-Relief Techniques: Practices like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can help manage mood swings and reduce stress.

Get Adequate Sleep: Ensure you get enough rest to help combat fatigue and improve overall well-being. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to help regulate hormones.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While pre-menstrual symptoms are common, severe or debilitating symptoms may indicate a condition known as Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). If your symptoms significantly interfere with daily life, consider consulting a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management.

Menstrual Hygiene Practices: Ensuring Health and Well-being

Understanding Menstrual Hygiene

Menstrual hygiene is an essential aspect of women’s health that directly affects their physical and mental well-being. Ensuring proper menstrual hygiene practices is crucial for preventing infections, reducing discomfort, and empowering women and girls to lead healthy and productive lives.

Key aspects of menstrual hygiene include:

Use of Sanitary Products: Choosing the right menstrual products, such as sanitary pads, tampons, or menstrual cups, is essential for comfort and hygiene. Sanitary pads and tampons should be changed every 4-6 hours to prevent infections. Menstrual cups, which are reusable, should be sterilized before and after each use.

Personal Hygiene: Maintaining personal hygiene is critical during menstruation. Regular washing with clean water and mild soap can help prevent bacterial growth and infections. It's also important to wear clean, breathable underwear.

Safe Disposal of Menstrual Waste: Proper disposal of used sanitary products is vital for both personal and environmental hygiene. Used pads and tampons should be wrapped in biodegradable bags before disposal. In many areas, safe disposal options include designated waste bins or incineration facilities. UNICEF offers guidance on safe menstrual waste disposal.

Addressing Menstrual Taboos: Cultural taboos surrounding menstruation can impact girls' and women's confidence and access to education. Encouraging open dialogue and education about menstruation can break down these barriers and foster a supportive environment. UN Women works towards ending menstrual stigma globally.

Importance of Menstrual Hygiene

Maintaining proper menstrual hygiene is essential for health and comfort during menstruation. Poor menstrual hygiene can lead to infections, skin irritation, and discomfort. Here are some key practices to ensure good menstrual hygiene:

Use the Right Products: Choose appropriate menstrual products like pads, tampons, menstrual cups, or period panties based on comfort and flow.

Change Regularly: Change menstrual products every 4-6 hours to prevent infections and odor.

Proper Cleaning: Wash the genital area with mild soap and water to maintain hygiene.

Disposal: Dispose of used sanitary products properly to maintain cleanliness and hygiene.

Education and Awareness: Educate individuals about menstrual hygiene to break taboos and promote understanding.

For more detailed information on menstrual hygiene practices, visit UNICEF: Menstrual Hygiene Management.

Challenges and Stigmas Surrounding Menstruation

Menstruation is often surrounded by myths, stigmas, and misconceptions that can impact individuals' physical and mental health. Some common challenges include:

Taboos and Myths: Cultural taboos often depict menstruation as unclean or impure, leading to shame and secrecy.
Lack of Access: Many people lack access to affordable menstrual products, clean water, and sanitation facilities, particularly in developing regions.
Education Barriers: Limited education about menstruation can lead to misunderstandings and poor hygiene practices.
Period Poverty: Inadequate access to menstrual products and facilities can prevent individuals from attending school or work, impacting their overall quality of life.

Efforts are being made globally to address these issues through education, policy changes, and initiatives that promote menstrual equity. Learn more about menstrual equity and advocacy at Menstrual Health Alliance.

Health Concerns Related to Menstruation

While menstruation is a natural process, certain health concerns may arise that require medical attention:

Dysmenorrhea: Severe menstrual cramps that interfere with daily activities.
Menorrhagia: Excessive menstrual bleeding that may lead to anemia.
Amenorrhea: Absence of menstruation, which may indicate underlying health issues.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A hormonal disorder affecting menstruation and fertility.

Consult a healthcare professional if you experience severe pain, irregular cycles, or any concerning symptoms. For more on menstrual health issues, visit Mayo Clinic's Menstrual Health Overview.

The Role of Diet and Lifestyle in Menstrual Health

A healthy diet and lifestyle can significantly impact menstrual health and alleviate symptoms:

Balanced Diet: Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to support hormonal balance.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to reduce bloating and maintain hydration.
Exercise: Regular physical activity can alleviate cramps, boost mood, and improve overall well-being.
Stress Management: Practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help manage stress and promote relaxation.

Explore more tips on maintaining menstrual health through diet and lifestyle at Healthline: Foods for Menstrual Health.

Innovations in Menstrual Products

Recent advancements in menstrual products aim to provide comfort, sustainability, and convenience:

Menstrual Cups: Reusable silicone cups that collect menstrual fluid, offering an eco-friendly alternative to disposable products.
Period Underwear: Absorbent underwear designed to be worn alone or with other products for added protection.
Organic Products: Pads and tampons made from organic cotton to reduce exposure to chemicals and promote sustainability.

Discover more about innovative menstrual products at Women's Health: Innovative Period Products.

Health Implications

Poor menstrual hygiene can lead to severe health issues, including urinary tract infections, yeast infections, and reproductive tract infections. Long-term neglect of menstrual hygiene can also impact fertility and overall well-being. It's vital to educate young girls and women about effective menstrual hygiene practices to prevent these health risks.

Importance of Education and Accessibility

Access to menstrual hygiene products and education is a basic human right. Lack of access can lead to missed school days, work absenteeism, and reduced social participation. Initiatives by organizations like WaterAid aim to provide menstrual hygiene education and distribute affordable sanitary products, especially in underserved communities.

To learn more about menstrual hygiene practices and their global impact, visit Menstrual Hygiene Day.