Understanding Behavior in Context

Module 9

One of the major social institutions I belong to is Kihei Charter School. This institution is meant
to educate students in preparation for getting a job, going to college, or simply getting through life. A
High School Diploma is vital because it aids in getting better jobs and receiving higher pay. (retrieved on
3/10/21 from https://teens.lovetoknow.com/Why_Is_a_High_School_Education_Important)

Within Kihei Charter, I have the role of a student, more specifically a Junior. As a Junior, I have much
more responsibility for completing my work individually and being a role model for the school's younger
kids. I am expected to respect my teachers, follow their rules, and instructions. One pattern that I have
noticed throughout high school is that Junior year is essential for preparing for college. Junior year is
when you take the SATs and ACTs, which significantly impact college applications. Therefore, I found it
to be the most stressful year so far.

Being a good student and maintaining high grades takes up a lot of time and energy and can conflict with
other social institutions such as being a part of my family. Often, I stay in my room completing work
rather than spending time with my parents. Aside from the apparent toll that education takes on my time,
it also affects me mentally. After doing assignments, I often feel drained or frustrated, and I usually take
those negative emotions out on my family, severely affecting my relationships. As an offspring, it is often
my responsibility to be polite to my parents and do my chores. When my time is taken by schoolwork, my
duties get neglected, and when I am frustrated and tired, my ability to be a decent human being goes
away.

Breathing, exercise, and sacrifice are ways to successfully cope with role strain or conflict between
different social institutions. When I am stressed about school and household responsibilities, taking a
ten-minute break to breathe or sit outside will often allow me to clear my head and come to my work from
another perspective. Exercise also helps because it can improve my mood and boost energy. (retrieved on
3/10/21 from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/exercise/art-20048389).
Finally, as a last resort sacrificing sleep or time with my friends will allow me to succeed in school and
my family.