Individual Determinants Of Health (PHE1IDH) - Assignment Solution

Q1. To identify one of Lauren’s problematic behaviours (e.g. irritability due to low mood). Please explain how this behaviour is problematic and may be influenced by her alcohol consumption. (You will need to support this problematic behaviour and adherence issues with peer reviewed evidence). 

Answer

There are three possible disturbances during adolescence: conflict with parents, mood instability and risky behavior (Arnett, 1999).  A stable and healthy self-image is the most important factor in the growth of a healthy adolescent.  Issues related to a negative self-image are significantly affecting the relationship, depression, mood stability, and risky acting out behaviors which can include crime, poor performance and substance abuse (Aarons et al., 2008). To explain this dysfunction and maladaptation in adolescence Jessor (1987); (1991); (1998); Jessor & Jessor (1977) introduced and discussed the Problem behavior theory, the behavioral problem occurs when the personality system and perceived environment system clashes (Jessor, 1987). The risks factors have been contributing to the problematic behavior are low self-esteem, low mood, isolation, substance abuse, antisocial, withdrawal from the institution and lack of success (Jessor, 1998).  Irritability is a response to a stressful situation for an individual in whom the person becomes frustrated and upset quickly, though low mood has been actively seen in cases of depression, irritability is a mood state which is very common in depressed individuals.  From a PBT perspective, the adolescent is at risk which has these behavioral problems can result into high depression, engaging in criminal activity, violence and other destructive behavioral effects (Donovan & Jessor, 1978; Jessor & Jessor, 1977). It is essential to understand that the alcohol consumption can be a cause and can also be an effect on these problematic behaviors, a low self-image can lead to alcohol consumption which can then result into problematic behaviors like irritability, low mood, self-pity, etc. These are the symptoms Lauren has been dealing with, initially, the physical incidents in her life have gradually dragged her into being inactive which has affected the way she perceives herself. Alcohol is her escape from self-pity and a perceived solution to feeling better. Adolescent view on the drinking aspect in front of their peers is all a bubble of misunderstanding it is an indicator of fitting in the peer group, the importance is shaped up by peer pressure (Berends et al., 2016). In a study by Hays et al. (1987) it was concluded that alcohol use is a multivariate function of the PBT model; it can be a major influencer into triggering behavior problems this research is in agreement with Christiansen and Goldman (1983); Rohsenow (1983); Southwick et al. (1981); Bauman et al. (1985). 

Q2. (a) To assess Rob’s helpful actions and comments that could assist Lauren to modify her behaviours and addressing her alcohol consumption as recommended. (You will need to provide examples from the scenario and explain why the action was helpful to assist Lauren). 

Answer

• Robs comment that the tests (Grandular and other medical tests) are negative, can prove to be a factor where the reason for her actions and behavior has been eliminated in her mind, this should help Lauren in self-assessment on the actual cause of this behavior which is alcohol consumption.

• Rob addressing her torn ligament that it was only a low tear, and she is physically ready to get involved in physical sports again can make her more active resulting in less consumption of alcohol. 

• Rob giving information on the negative effects of alcohol consumption by sharing a brochure which has detailed information can help Lauren get aware of the effects and may result in modifying her alcohol consumption.

• Rob discussing her asthma and motivating her to be more active, eliminating one more medical excuse that Lauren has been giving to herself to be lazy. This information and motivation can prove that with the appropriate planning asthma can be managed effectively. 

• Rob pointing out that her symptoms, issues and her feeling are all related to her behavior rather than any physical or mental issue. Summarizing the part where physical activity, managing asthma, weight issues and alcohol consumption, rob shed some information on how her daily routine should be like with the bare minimum activities which do not take extra effort to pull off. 

• Rob pursuing some more medical test to satisfy her that she does not have any physical issues can prove to be significant in changing her perception. 
• Keeping track of the alcohol consumption and sharing the details afterward can help Lauren be aware as to how much she is actually drinking than her perceived volume.