Embracing Manhood PDF
Embracing Manhood PDF
MANHOOD
A Trainer's Handbook for Implementing a Life
Skills Program for Adolescent Boys and Young
Men
®
INTRODUCTION
The "Embracing Manhood" program is designed to empower young men by providing them with the skills, values, and knowledge
necessary for their holistic development. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by young men in today's society.The program aims
to promote values such as respect, responsibility, empathy, and integrity to foster the development of good character and responsible
behavior. Educate young men on important health issues, including physical, mental, and sexual health, encouraging healthy lifestyle
choices.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines life skills as the abilities that enable one to adopt positive behaviours that allow
one to deal effectively with the demands and challenges of everyday life. The concept of life skills assumes that there are sets
of life roles that each person needs to fulfil.
We know from research that behaviours and skills are learned more easily when an individual is young (Glanzet al, 1997). We
also know that individuals need information to develop and change behaviour, but that information alone is not enough. In
addition to information, individuals need skills opportunities and an environment that allows them to learn the values and
attitudes and adopt the behaviours that will enable them to deal effectively with the demands of daily life. School is, therefore,
one of the best places to begin to teach these skills and to ensure, through interaction with and involvement of parents, that
these lessons are reinforced at home. The theoretical foundations of the life skills approach rest on evidence that
competencies in the use of life skills can
Delay the onset of drug use;
Prevent high-risk sexual behaviour;
Facilitate anger management and conflict resolution;
Improve academic performance;
Decision Making The ability to choose a course of action from a number of Helps us deal constructively with health and other decisions
positions, which may result in a specific outcome or involve about our lives by enabling us to assess options and the effects
only the resolve to behave in a certain way in the future. of different decisions.
Problem Solving The process through which a situation/problem is resolved Allows us to deal constructively with problems in our lives
(i.e., diagnosing the problem, and taking action to close the that if left untreated could cause new problems, including
gap between the present situation and desired outcome.) mental and physical stress.
Creative Thinking The ability to depart from traditional ways of thinking, Contributes to both decision-making and problem solving by
resulting in the generation of original and innovative ideas enabling us to explore the available alternatives and various
that enables us to respond adaptively to life situations. consequences of our actions or non-actions.
The ability to express ourselves, both verbally and non-
Communication Allows the transfer of information and emotion from one
verbally, in ways that are appropriate to our cultures and
person to another to make one‘s intent clear.
situations.
Self-Awareness The ability to focus on yourself and how your actions, Helps us to recognize our feelings and values and is a
thoughts, or emotions align with your internal pre- requisite for effective communication, interpersonal
standards relationship and developing empathy for others.
Empathy The ability to imagine what life is like for another person, Can help us to accept others who may be very different
even in a situation that we are unfamiliar with. from ourselves, respond to people in need, and promotes
positive social interactions.
Coping with The ability to recognize a range of feelings in ourselves and Enables us to respond appropriately to our emotions and
Emotions others. The awareness of how emotions influence behaviour avoid the negative effects that prolonged, pent-up emotions
and the ability to respond appropriately. may have on our physical and mental health.
Coping with Stress The ability to recognize the sources of stress in our lives and Enables us to adjust our levels of stress and avoid the
the effects that stress produces, and the ability to act in negative consequences of stress, including boredom,
ways that help us cope our reduce our levels of stress, burnout, susceptibility to diseases and behavioural
changes.
The ability to communicate with others for the purposes of Help us to meet and address individual needs and concerns
Negotiation
settling a matter, coming to terms or reaching an agreement. in ways that are mutually beneficial. This is a key factor in
This may involve the ability to compromise. working and playing cooperatively with others.
1. Refusal Skill • Use the word “no” in your refusal. 3. Self-awareness skill
• Emphasize your refusal by repeating the refusal • Identify your positive qualities
assertively (clear, strong voice, eye contact, no smiling) • Identify strengths/weaknesses and likes/dislikes
• Use appropriate body language (serious expression, • Identify the emotions that you feel in different
walking away, gesturing with hands) situations
• Give your reasons for refusing or list possible • Examine your needs, values and beliefs
consequences • Identify who/what influences negative/positive
• Suggest an alternative feelings about yourself
• Change the subject or walk away • Identify the behaviours that improve and/or worsen
• Report to an adult when necessary your performance/conduct
• Analyse how ‘self’ impacts others - How do your
attitudes, needs, feelings, beliefs and/or behaviours
2. Problem solving skill affect others?
• Stop (check out the scene, and remind yourself to think • Identify ways in which you can improve your
before acting) behaviour for the future
• Think (become aware of the choices and consider the
consequences) • 4. Effective communication skill
Act (choose the best alternative and act on it)
Being an effective listener
• Review (decide whether the action has helped or hurt)
Face the speaker and make eye contact
Use appropriate body language Refrain from
OR interrupting and suggesting solutions
Define the problem. Wait for the speaker to pause to ask clarifying
• Analyse the causes of the problem. questions (to ensure understanding)
• Identify possible options (Consider the impact on life, values Provide regular feedback through verbal and non-
verbal communication (to ensure understanding)
and beliefs)
Provide regular feedback through verbal and non-
• List the negative and positive consequences of each option. verbal communication
• Choose the appropriate solution and act.
• Evaluate results.
5. Anger Management Skill 6. Conflict Management Skill
• Identify the conflict
Acknowledge that you are angry with
• Examine the situation, taking into account the views
yourself and/or someone else
Calm down, control your emotions: of all parties
• Discuss different ways of resolving the conflict
Take deep breaths.
• Propose and choose a mutually suitable method to
Count backwards slowly.
Think calm thoughts. resolve the conflict
Talk slowly. • Review the outcome of the chosen method and
Take some time for yourself. adjust as necessary
Analyse the triggers by considering the
following questions 8. Coping with Stress
Why was I angry?
• Identify stressors
What did I do?
What worked? • Recognize the effects of stress on self
What would I do differently? • Identify ways to reduce/eliminate stress
Did I do a good job? •Make appropriate changes in one’s
Express the reason for your anger by using “I” lifestyle, environment or attitude
messages and avoid criticisms or placing the blame
Know when to seek help
• Recognize triggers
• Understand why “I” will respond in a certain
manner
• Understand the consequences of responses
• Determine appropriate response
• Respond appropriately
GROWING UP
Session 1.1 Physical Changes in Boys
Objective
This session aims to educate young men about the physical changes that occur during adolescence, helping them
understand and manage these changes confidently. The session will provide a supportive environment where participants
can openly discuss these changes.
Introduction
Adolescence is a time of significant physical change for boys as they transition into manhood. Understanding these
changes is important for self-confidence. This session will cover the key physical changes that occur during this period,
such as, voice changes, and the development of sexual feelings.
Session Plan
Introduction to Adolescence (10 minutes)
Discussion: Begin with a brief introduction to what adolescence is—a period of growth and development between
childhood and adulthood.
Icebreaker Activity: Have participants share what they know or have observed about changes during adolescence
(e.g., growth in height, deeper voice). This helps normalize the topic and eases participants into the discussion.
Introduction
Just as boys undergo physical changes during adolescence, girls experience their own set of changes as they transition into
womanhood. Understanding these changes is important for fostering respect towards others, which is crucial for building healthy and
supportive relationships. This session will cover key physical changes in girls, such as breast development, menstruation, and overall
body changes.
Session Plan
Introduction to Gender Differences in Adolescence (10 minutes)
Start with a brief explanation that both boys and girls go through significant physical changes during adolescence, but these
changes are different. Emphasize the importance of understanding and respecting these differences.
Icebreaker Activity: Ask participants what they know about the changes girls go through during adolescence. This helps gauge
their current understanding for the discussion.
Skin Changes
Discuss how girls also face skin changes, like acne, due to hormonal shifts during adolescence. Encourage understanding that
these changes are part of growing up and are similar to what boys experience.
Female Reproductive System
Session 1.3 Social and Emotional Changes
Objective
The objective of the session on emotional changes during adolescence is to provide adolescents with a comprehensive understanding
of the emotional and social transformations they experience as they navigate this critical developmental stage.
Begin with a brief overview of how adolescence is a time of significant social and emotional development for both boys and girls.
Highlight that while the physical changes are distinct, the emotional and social experiences can be quite similar.
Emphasize the importance of empathy and understanding as adolescents navigate these changes.
Icebreaker Activity : Ask participants to share one word that comes to mind when they think of emotions during adolescence. This
can help gauge their current understanding and feelings about this topic.
2. Sperm Transport
Following ejaculation during sexual intercourse, sperm are deposited in the vagina and must navigate through several
barriers to reach the egg. Sperm swim through the cervix and into the uterus, propelled by their own motility.
Survival of Sperm: Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days, allowing for a window of
opportunity for fertilization even if intercourse occurs days before ovulation.
3. Fertilization
Fertilization occurs in the fallopian tube when a sperm successfully penetrates the outer layer of the egg
Fusion of Gametes: Once a sperm enters the egg, their genetic materials combine to form a zygote. This zygote contains
genetic information from both parents and determines the sex of the future child based on whether an X or Y
chromosome is contributed by the sperm.
4. Embryo Development
After fertilization, the zygote begins to divide and develop as it travels down the fallopian tube toward the uterus:Cell
Division: The zygote undergoes multiple rounds of cell division, becoming a blastocyst by the time it reaches the uterus,
approximately five to six days post-fertilization.
5. Implantation
Implantation is the final step in conception, Attachment to Uterine Lining: The blastocyst embeds itself into the
endometrium (the lining of the uterus). Successful implantation is crucial for establishing a pregnancy.
Hormonal Changes: Following implantation, hormonal signals are sent to maintain the uterine lining and prevent
menstruation, indicating that pregnancy has begun.
Defining Abstinence:
Abstinence refers to the decision to refrain from sexual activity, often until marriage. It is a conscious choice that
involves self-control and a desire to prioritize other aspects of life before engaging in sexual behavior.
Discussion Prompt: What does abstinence mean to you personally? Why do you think people choose abstinence?
Benefits of Abstinence
Protection from STIs: Abstinence ensures protection from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HIV,
gonorrhea, and chlamydia, which are commonly transmitted through unprotected sex.
Avoiding Unplanned Pregnancy: Abstinence is the most effective way to prevent unintended pregnancies.
Maintaining Physical Health: Many STIs can have long-term health consequences if untreated. By practicing
abstinence, young men can maintain their physical well-being.
Increase Awareness: Provide accurate information about menstruation and menstrual hygiene management (MHM) to both boys
and girls.
Encourage a supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable discussing menstruation without stigma or
embarrassment.
Identify and address common misconceptions and cultural taboos surrounding menstruation, promoting a more inclusive and
understanding environment.
Introduction
Menstruation is a monthly process in which a woman's body prepares for potential pregnancy. If fertilization does not occur, the body
sheds the uterine lining, resulting in menstrual bleeding. as they transition into womanhood. It typically begins between the ages of 9
and 16. Despite being a normal part of life for half the world's population, menstruation is often surrounded by stigma,
misinformation, and cultural taboos.This session will focus on understanding menstruation, the importance of menstrual hygiene
management, and how peers, educators, and family members can provide support. By fostering an open dialogue about menstruation,
we can help reduce the stigma and empower girls to manage their menstrual health with dignity and confidence.
Activity
Myth-Busting Activity: Present common myths and misconceptions about menstruation and have participants work in groups to
identify the facts and challenge the stigma.
The Role of Boys and Men in Supporting Girls during Menstruation
Emotional Support - Be Understanding by encouraging boys to be empathetic and supportive when their female peers experience
discomfort or emotional fluctuations related to menstruation.
Listen Actively - Promote active listening skills, allowing girls to express their feelings and experiences without judgment.
Advocacy - Encourage boys to advocate for policies that support menstrual health, such as better facilities in schools and
workplaces.
Foster an inclusive environment where all students feel comfortable discussing menstruation. This can involve creating clubs or
groups focused on health education.
Boys can act as allies by standing up against any teasing or bullying related to menstruation and promoting respect for their
female peers.
HEALTH
Objective
To provide participants with a foundational understanding of mental health, its significance in their lives, and to challenge common
misconceptions. This section aims to foster an environment where boys and young men feel comfortable discussing mental health
issues.
Engagement Activity:
Ask participants to write down one word they associate with mental health on sticky notes. Collect and display them on a whiteboard
to create a word cloud that reflects their perceptions.
Myth : Young men who seek help for mental health problems are less masculine.
Reality: Seeking help is a brave and responsible act. It shows self-awareness and a commitment to improving one’s well-being.
Myth: Men should be able to "tough it out" when facing mental health challenges.
Reality: Ignoring mental health issues can lead to more serious problems. It’s important to address mental health concerns
early.
Myth: Mental health problems in young men will resolve on their own.
Reality: While some issues might improve with time, many mental health problems require active treatment and support to
resolve.
Myth: Mental health issues are just an excuse for laziness or lack of motivation.
Reality: Mental health problems can significantly impact a person’s energy levels, motivation, and ability to function, and should
not be dismissed as mere excuses.
Myth: If a young man is successful in school or work, he can't have mental health issues.
Reality: Success in academics or work does not protect against mental health challenges. Many high achievers also struggle with
mental health concerns.
Stress Management
Define stress and explain that it is a natural response to challenges or demands. Discuss how stress can be both positive (eustress)
and negative (distress), and how managing stress is crucial for mental and physical health.
Examples:
Preparing for a big event like a wedding or graduation.
Starting a new job or a challenging project that you're passionate about.
Engaging in a competitive sport.
Learning a new skill or hobby that excites you.
Effects: Eustress can increase motivation, build resilience, and enhance well-being by helping individuals achieve goals and grow.
Distress
Distress is the harmful type of stress that can cause anxiety, concern, or overwhelm. It can be short-term or long-term and often
leads to negative physical and mental health outcomes.
Examples:
Experiencing job loss or financial problems.
Going through a breakup or divorce.
Coping with chronic illness or injury.
Dealing with a toxic work environment.
Effects: Distress can lead to health problems such as headaches, insomnia, high blood pressure, and mental health issues like
anxiety and depression. It can also reduce productivity and negatively impact relationships.
Interactive Activity:
- Group Discussion: Break participants into small groups to discuss how poor hygiene can affect health and how good hygiene can prevent
common ailments.
- Report Back: Have each group share their findings with the larger group.