Government and policymakers

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 148 views

Understanding Unemployment and its Psychological Impacts on School-Going Youths

2.1 Define the term unemployment and state ONE reason for unemployment

Unemployment is a complex and multifaceted issue that affects individuals, communities, and economies worldwide. It is defined as a situation where a person is capable and willing to work, but is unable to find employment. This can be due to various reasons, including a lack of job opportunities, skills, or experience.

One reason for unemployment:

Lack of job opportunities: One of the primary reasons for unemployment is the lack of job opportunities in a particular industry or region. This can be due to various factors such as economic downturn, technological advancements, or changes in consumer demand.

2.2 Mention FOUR psychological impacts of unemployment on school-going youths

Unemployment can have a significant impact on the mental health and well-being of school-going youths. The uncertainty and insecurity associated with unemployment can lead to various psychological impacts, including:

Anxiety and stress: Unemployment can cause significant anxiety and stress in school-going youths, as they may feel uncertain about their future and the ability to support themselves and their families.
Low self-esteem: The inability to find employment can lead to low self-esteem and a sense of inadequacy, as school-going youths may feel that they are not good enough or capable enough to secure a job.
Depression: Unemployment can also lead to depression, as school-going youths may feel hopeless and disconnected from their peers and community.
Loss of motivation: The prolonged period of unemployment can lead to a loss of motivation and a sense of purpose, as school-going youths may feel that they are not achieving their goals or making progress towards their aspirations.

2.3 Indicate the importance of making proper subject choices at grade 10 for future career prospects

Making proper subject choices at grade 10 is crucial for future career prospects. The subjects chosen at this stage can have a significant impact on the career options available to school-going youths in the future. Here are some reasons why making proper subject choices is important:

Career options: The subjects chosen at grade 10 can limit or expand career options in the future. For example, choosing subjects in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) can lead to career opportunities in fields such as engineering, computer science, and healthcare.
University admission: The subjects chosen at grade 10 can also impact university admission. Many universities require specific subjects for admission, and choosing the right subjects can increase the chances of getting accepted into a preferred university.
Skill development: The subjects chosen at grade 10 can also help develop specific skills that are essential for future careers. For example, choosing subjects in languages can develop communication and language skills, while choosing subjects in mathematics can develop problem-solving and analytical skills.
Personal interest: Choosing subjects that align with personal interests can also lead to a more fulfilling and engaging learning experience. When school-going youths are interested in the subjects they are studying, they are more likely to be motivated and engaged in their learning.

The Impact of Unemployment on School-Going Youths

Unemployment can have a significant impact on school-going youths, affecting their mental health, well-being, and future career prospects. The uncertainty and insecurity associated with unemployment can lead to anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, depression, and a loss of motivation.

The Importance of Making Proper Subject Choices

Making proper subject choices at grade 10 is crucial for future career prospects. The subjects chosen at this stage can have a significant impact on the career options available to school-going youths in the future. Choosing the right subjects can lead to career opportunities in fields such as engineering, computer science, and healthcare, and can also impact university admission and skill development.

Conclusion

In conclusion, unemployment can have a significant impact on school-going youths, affecting their mental health, well-being, and future career prospects. Making proper subject choices at grade 10 is crucial for future career prospects, and can lead to career opportunities in fields such as engineering, computer science, and healthcare, and can also impact university admission and skill development. By understanding the importance of making proper subject choices, school-going youths can make informed decisions about their future and increase their chances of success.

Recommendations

Based on the discussion above, the following recommendations can be made:

Schools and educators: Schools and educators should provide guidance and support to school-going youths in making informed decisions about their subject choices.
Parents and guardians: Parents and guardians should also play a role in supporting school-going youths in making informed decisions about their subject choices.
Government and policymakers: The government and policymakers should also consider the impact of unemployment on school-going youths and develop policies and programs to support them.

References

World Health Organization. (2019). Mental health and employment.
International Labour Organization. (2020). World Employment Social Outlook: Trends 2020.
National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). Depression.
National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). Anxiety Disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Unemployment and Subject Choices

Q: What is unemployment, and how does it affect school-going youths?

A: Unemployment is a situation where a person is capable and willing to work, but is unable to find employment. It can have a significant impact on school-going youths, affecting their mental health, well-being, and future career prospects.

Q: What are some reasons for unemployment among school-going youths?

A: Some reasons for unemployment among school-going youths include a lack of job opportunities, skills, or experience. Additionally, the uncertainty and insecurity associated with unemployment can lead to anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, depression, and a loss of motivation.

Q: Why is making proper subject choices at grade 10 important for future career prospects?

A: Making proper subject choices at grade 10 is crucial for future career prospects because the subjects chosen at this stage can have a significant impact on the career options available to school-going youths in the future. Choosing the right subjects can lead to career opportunities in fields such as engineering, computer science, and healthcare, and can also impact university admission and skill development.

Q: What are some benefits of choosing subjects in STEM fields at grade 10?

A: Choosing subjects in STEM fields at grade 10 can lead to career opportunities in fields such as engineering, computer science, and healthcare. It can also develop specific skills such as problem-solving, analytical thinking, and communication.

Q: How can school-going youths make informed decisions about their subject choices?

A: School-going youths can make informed decisions about their subject choices by considering their interests, strengths, and career goals. They should also seek guidance and support from schools, educators, parents, and guardians.

Q: What role can parents and guardians play in supporting school-going youths in making informed decisions about their subject choices?

A: Parents and guardians can play a significant role in supporting school-going youths in making informed decisions about their subject choices by providing guidance, support, and resources. They should also encourage school-going youths to explore their interests and strengths.

Q: What are some resources available to support school-going youths in making informed decisions about their subject choices?

A: Some resources available to support school-going youths in making informed decisions about their subject choices include career counseling services, online resources, and educational institutions. Schools and educators can also provide guidance and support to school-going youths.

Q: How can the government and policymakers support school-going youths in making informed decisions about their subject choices?

A: The government and policymakers can support school-going youths in making informed decisions about their subject choices by developing policies and programs that promote career guidance and counseling. They can also provide resources and funding to support schools and educators in providing guidance and support to school-going youths.

Q: What are some potential consequences of not making informed decisions about subject choices?

A: Some potential consequences of not making informed decisions about subject choices include limited career options, decreased motivation, and decreased academic performance. School-going youths may also experience anxiety, stress, and low self-esteem.

Q: How can school-going youths overcome the challenges associated with unemployment and subject choices?

A: School-going youths can overcome the challenges associated with unemployment and subject choices by seeking guidance and support from schools, educators, parents, and guardians. They can also explore their interests and strengths, and consider career counseling services and online resources.

Q: What are some final tips for school-going youths making informed decisions about their subject choices?

A: Some final tips for school-going youths making informed decisions about their subject choices include:

Explore your interests and strengths: Consider what subjects you enjoy and what you are good at.
Seek guidance and support: Talk to schools, educators, parents, and guardians about your subject choices.
Consider career goals: Think about what you want to do in the future and what subjects will help you achieve your goals.
Be open-minded: Be willing to try new subjects and explore different career options.
Stay motivated: Remind yourself why you are making these choices and what you hope to achieve.