Shaping Perceptions: Exploring the Influence on Mental Health in Children and Young People

Shaping Perceptions: Exploring the Influence on Mental Health in Children and Young People

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to evaluate how perceptions of mental health and well-being in children and young people can be affected by media influences, varied cultural perceptions, and public perception of children and young people with mental health issues.

Start the lesson by clearly stating the learning objective to the students.

What do you already know about how perceptions of mental health and well-being in children and young people can be affected?

Slide 1: Introduction

Welcome to today's lesson! We will be exploring how perceptions of mental health and well-being in children and young people can be influenced.

Set the context for the lesson and engage students with a welcoming introduction.

Slide 2: Media Influences

Media plays a significant role in shaping perceptions of mental health in children and young people. It can influence what we believe to be 'normal' or 'abnormal' in terms of mental well-being.

Discuss the impact of media on perceptions of mental health and provide relevant examples.

Slide 3: Cultural Perceptions

Perceptions of mental health and well-being can vary across different cultures. Cultural values, beliefs, and practices can influence how mental health issues are understood and addressed.

Explain the importance of cultural perceptions and their impact on mental health in children and young people.

Slide 4: Public Perception

Public perception of children and young people with mental health issues can greatly impact their well-being. Stigma and discrimination can arise, affecting their access to support and treatment.

Highlight the role of public perception in shaping the experiences of children and young people with mental health issues.

Slide 5: Media Influence - Activity

In small groups, discuss examples of how media influences perceptions of mental health in children and young people. Share your findings with the class.

Encourage students to actively engage in a group activity to analyze media influences on mental health perceptions.

Slide 6: Cultural Perceptions - Discussion

In pairs, discuss how cultural perceptions may impact the mental health and well-being of children and young people. Be prepared to share your insights.

Facilitate a discussion to encourage students to consider the influence of cultural perceptions on mental health.

Slide 7: Public Perception - Case Study

Analyze a case study highlighting the impact of public perception on a young person with mental health issues. Discuss the potential consequences and suggest strategies for promoting understanding and acceptance.

Present a case study to stimulate critical thinking and problem-solving related to public perception of mental health issues.

Slide 8: Media Literacy

Developing media literacy skills can empower children and young people to critically evaluate and challenge media messages about mental health. It can help them develop a more accurate understanding of mental well-being.

Introduce the concept of media literacy and its significance in countering negative media influences.

Slide 9: Cultural Sensitivity

Promoting cultural sensitivity and inclusivity is crucial in supporting the mental health of children and young people. Understanding diverse cultural perspectives fosters empathy and reduces stigma.

Emphasize the importance of cultural sensitivity in creating a supportive environment for mental health.

Slide 10: Advocacy and Education

Advocacy and education play a vital role in challenging public perception and reducing stigma surrounding mental health issues in children and young people. Raising awareness and providing accurate information are key.

Discuss the role of advocacy and education in changing public perception and promoting mental health awareness.

Slide 11: Media Influence - Reflection

Individually, reflect on a personal experience where media influenced your perception of mental health in children or young people. Share your insights with a partner.

Encourage self-reflection and peer discussion to deepen understanding of media influences on personal perceptions.

Slide 12: Cultural Perceptions - Brainstorm

In groups, brainstorm ways in which cultural perceptions can positively impact the mental health and well-being of children and young people. Present your ideas to the class.

Engage students in a creative brainstorming activity to explore positive aspects of cultural perceptions related to mental health.

Slide 13: Public Perception - Debate

Organize a classroom debate on the statement: 'Public perception of mental health issues in children and young people has improved in recent years.' Divide the class into two teams and present arguments supporting both sides.

Facilitate a structured debate to encourage critical thinking and analysis of public perception changes.

Slide 14: Media Influence - Role Play

In pairs, create and perform a role play scenario that demonstrates the impact of media influences on the mental health of a young person. Reflect on the experience and discuss the potential consequences.

Engage students in a creative role play activity to deepen their understanding of media influences and their effects on mental health.

Slide 15: Cultural Perceptions - Guest Speaker

Invite a guest speaker from a different cultural background to share their experiences and insights on how cultural perceptions affect mental health in children and young people. Encourage questions and open discussion.

Arrange for a guest speaker to provide firsthand perspectives on cultural perceptions and mental health.

Slide 16: Public Perception - Research Project

In pairs or small groups, conduct research on public perception of children and young people with mental health issues in your community or country. Present your findings to the class.

Assign a research project to encourage students to investigate public perception locally and broaden their understanding.

Slide 17: Media Influence - Quiz

Test your knowledge with a quiz on media influences and mental health perceptions in children and young people. Discuss the correct answers as a class.

Conduct a quiz to assess students' understanding of media influences on mental health perceptions.

Slide 18: Cultural Perceptions - Gallery Walk

Create a gallery walk showcasing visual representations of diverse cultural perceptions of mental health in children and young people. Reflect on the exhibited artwork as a class.

Organize a gallery walk to encourage visual exploration and reflection on cultural perceptions of mental health.

Slide 19: Public Perception - Action Plan

In groups, develop an action plan to challenge negative public perception of children and young people with mental health issues. Present your plans and discuss potential implementation strategies.

Guide students in creating practical action plans to address public perception issues surrounding mental health.

Slide 20: Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully explored how perceptions of mental health and well-being in children and young people can be influenced. Remember the importance of media literacy, cultural sensitivity, and advocacy in shaping a more inclusive and understanding society.

Summarize the key takeaways and encourage students to apply their knowledge in real-life situations.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.