Life Orientation: Activity 1

Lesedi Peete Grade 12 Key 2(E)

1.1 To adapt to change means to transform or become different.

1.2 In a new environment the two psychological stressors that may hinder growth and affect well-
being are:
Performance Anxiety
A psychological stressor experienced by many individuals in new environments is performance
anxiety, many individuals experience ‘imposter syndrome’, a psychological occurrence in which
people doubt their skills, talents and accomplishments. Many strong willed characters experience
such a phenomenon in environments that they are familiar in, therefore the average person’s fear
of their ability to perform and exceed is only further heightened in unfamiliar territories. As a
result, performance anxiety may hinder growth as it will affect their well-being, as individuals
may develop stress and work-based-depression.

Adaptation Difficulties
A psychological stressor experienced by many individuals in new environments is adaptation
difficulties, the overwhelming feeling of being out of place, finding themselves in unfamiliar
territories, searching for a sense of belonging, results in many people questioning their ability to
perform and exceed beyond measure. As a result, adaptation difficulties may hinder growth as it
will affect their well-being, as individuals may develop a sense of frustration and stress.

In a new environment the two social stressors that may hinder growth and affect well-being are:
Self-Isolation
A social stressor experienced by many individuals in a new environment are the effects of self-
isolation, the feeling of being socially disconnected, the feeling of being without a strong reliable
social support system especially in a distant far-away land negatively impacts a person's well-
being and hinders growth as the individual may develop a sense of loneliness, and abandonment
by loved ones.

Cultural Differences
A social stressor experienced by many individuals in a new environment are the effects of being
culturally different, engaging in conversations with people who practice contrary cultural beliefs
to your own, having to adapt to new cultural norms, and values. All the above-mentioned factors
majorly hinder an individual’s growth and impact their well-being as they develop a sense of
indifference, and regret moving to a such an environment.

1.3 The two factors that influence effective communication in relationships are:
Listening Skills
Effective communication in relationships is not only limited to speaking. Listening skills are
critical in effective communication, listening skills include the ability to actively listen to the
speaker, understanding the speaker’s message, as well as responding appropriately. Therefore,
the ability to analyze and make appropriate critical deductions from the speaker's message, and
showing emotions such as empathy, all positively influence effective communication in
relationships.

Body Language
An individual’s body language plays a critical role in communication found in relationships.
Body language includes facial expressions, gestures and a person’s posture. Therefore, body
Life Orientation: Activity 1

language majorly influences communication in relationships as it conveys emotions and feelings

that cannot be expressed through words.

1.4 The three ways in which stress can be seen as an opportunity for personal growth and
development in young people are:
Resilience Building
Experiencing and overcoming stress can help young people develop resilience, the ability to
bounce back from adversity. The resultant factors of facing and managing stressful situations is
the building of resilience within the specific individual as well as the developing of coping
mechanisms to help them navigate through such stressful times. Therefore, stressful times in a
person’s life can be seen as an opportunity for personal growth and development as through the
individual will always believe that they are able to preserve and overcome.

Skill Development
Stressful situations often need individuals to develop new skills and/or better their current skills
to effectively navigate the challenges that they are facing. Stressful situations, although
unwanted, are blessings in disguise as individuals are forced to better their time-management
skills, their emotional intelligence and their mental strength as stressful situations ask so much
from an individual for them to conquer and overcome.

Self-Discovery and Adaptation

Stressful situations prompt young individuals to reflect on their values, their priorities, and their
goals, and similar to a domino effect, as a result of stress, the individual begins their journey
toward self-discovery and insight. Embarking on such a journey includes travelling on unseen
roads, however, self-discovery promotes adaptability as the individual learns to navigate through
ever-changing roads, and further understanding their own strengths and limitations.

1.5 The two ways contributing factors which impact the relationship between people in a new
environment with unresolved conflicts are:

Communication Breakdown
When conflicts remain unresolved, communication between individuals breaks down. Without
effective communication, individuals may struggle to express their needs and concerns, resultant
factors of being unable to express themselves openly are misunderstandings, and
misinterpretations, ultimately straining relationships.

Erosion of Trust
Unresolved conflicts erode trust between individuals in a new environment, as conflicts persist, a
sense of unease and paranoia is felt. Questions regarding a person’s true intentions are asked,
making it difficult for the individuals to truly rely on each other. This erosion will hinder
collaboration, teamwork and the establishment of meaningful connections, ultimately impacting
the quality of relationships in a new environment.
1.6
Benefit of being in an Adjustment and Integration Stage when entering a new environment
Social Connections
This stage facilitates the establishment of social connections and networks, which can provide
support, guidance, and a sense of belonging.
Life Orientation: Activity 1

Professional Development
This stage can lead to professional development opportunities, such as learning new work practices,
gaining diverse perspectives and expanding one’s skill set.

The Level of satisfaction in the ‘euphoria’ and ‘honeymoom phase’ is characterized by excitement,
and optimism. However it is often followed by disappointment and culture shock as individuals
encounter unexpected challenges and differences. This phase presents an opportunity for personal
reflection, adaptation and the development of cultural competence .

Euphoria is a feeling of intense happiness and well-being, as week as pleasure or excitement. It can be
induced by certain natural rewards and social activities such as dancing, listening to or making music,
laughter, and aerobic exercise.

Culture shock is a feeling of confusion or anxiety that can arise when someone is exposed to a new
culture or environment. It can be characterized by feelings of overwhelm, and not understanding
social norms only leads to alienation. However, cultural shock could also serve as an opportunity for
personal growth, cultural learning and increased confidence and independence.

Two ways in which understanding others and their beliefs can help a person build and sustain new
relationships in a new environment.

Empathy and Respect

In Stage 5 individuals begin to understand the importance of social order and the rule of law. They
recognize that society functions best when people adhere to mutuality beneficial rules and principals.
This understanding fosters empathy and respect for others’ perspectives and beliefs, even if they differ
from one’s own. In a new environment demonstrating empathy and respect for the beliefs and values
of others, helps establish trust and support. By showing that you acknowledge and value diverse
viewpoints, you create an inclusive atmosphere where people feel heard and understood, therefore
empathy and respect lay strong foundations for building positive relationships in a new environment.

Conflict and Resolution

Individuals at stage 5 recognize the importance of compromise when resolving conflict and
addressing issues. They understand that different perspectives can enrich discussions and lead to more
effective problem-solving skills. In a new environment, this ability to navigate through conflict and
collaboration with others becomes crucial for building and sustaining relationships. By approaching
disagreements with an open min and a willingness to find common ground, individuals forge strong
bonds based on shared goals and values. Moreover, by actively engaging in collaborative endeavors,
such as group projects or community initiatives, individuals at stage 5 can demonstrate their
commitment to building meaningful connections and contributing positively to their new
environment.
Life Orientation: Activity 1

In summary understanding others and their beliefs as per stage 5 of moral development, it enables
individuals to cultivate empathy, respect, and collaboration in their interactions with others. By
embracing diversity and working toward, common goals, individuals initiate, build, and sustain
relationships in a new environment.