Whole-Person Development Framework for Secondary Students in Hong Kong – Ming Wai LAU Ambrose WONG Wai Kit TSANG
Ming Wai LAU
Founder of MWYO & Vice Chairman of Youth Development Commission
Ambrose WONG
MWYO Research Assistant
Wai Kit TSANG
MWYO Research and Advocacy Director
【Abstract】“Score high, fly higher” has been the ethos of Hong Kong society in judging the “success” (or “failure”) of students. However, in a world as dynamic and rapidly changing as ours, academic performanceis hardly the only decisive factor by which to assess one’s abilities. Diverse qualities such as the ability to maintain health and wellness, possession of a wide variety of life skills, relationship literacy, civic literacy, and global awareness are essential for our youth to lead a successful and meaningful life in the 21st century. This project aims to establish a comprehensive whole-person development framework and to provide a reference for the education sector to review their student development policies and initiatives.
Keywords: Whole-Person Development; Multiple Intelligence; Core Competencies; Ethical Values; Enduring Happiness
Positive Youth Development through Sports in Hong Kong – Lobo H. T. LOUIE
Lobo H. T. LOUIE
Associate Professor, Department of Sport and Physical Education, Hong Kong Baptist University
【Abstract】Promoting the positive development of young people through sports is increasingly valued by societies around the world. Adolescents’ participation in sports is not only about physical fitness, it also has a comprehensive developmental effect on cognitive and mental health. This article attempts to explore the principles and strategies of promoting the positive development of young people through sports, as well as the difficulties and challenges encountered in Hong Kong.
Keywords: Youth Sports; Positive Youth Development
Discussion of Adolescent Obesity in Hong Kong – H. K. CHEUNG Denise Y. W. LEE Ruth S. M. CHAN Jean WOO
H. K. CHEUNG
Registered Dietitian, Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Denise Y. W. LEE
Student, Food and Nutritional Science, Faculty of Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Ruth S. M. CHAN
Senior Researcher, Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Jean WOO
Emeritus Professor, Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
【Abstract】With economic prosperity and changes in the overall social environment, the prevalence of obesity has increased rapidly. It is becoming a public health issue of great concern and intervention is urgently needed. Research has shown that more and more adolescents are overweight or obese in Hong Kong. Obesity not only affects an individual’s physical and mental health but can also lead to negative effects on the economic status of a society. This article will briefly introduce the current situation of adolescent obesity in Hong Kong and discuss the contributing factors, the health consequences and approaches to tackle the rising prevalence of obesity.
Keywords: Hong Kong; Adolescent; Obesity; Overweight; Prevention
Youth Smoking Trends and Derived Health Problems in Hong Kong – William H. C. LI
William H. C. LI
Associate Professor, School of Nursing, the University of Hong Kong
【Abstract】Evidence shows that smoking has negative effects on nearly every organ in the body, accounts for the premature death of two-thirds of all smokers and is especially hazardous for those who start smoking at a young age. On the other hand, the use of electronic smoking devices including e-cigarettes and heat-not-burn tobacco products among the youth is on an alarming upward trend. There is an urgent need to promote smoking cessation among young smokers, otherwise they will be at great risk of developing smoking-related diseases later in life.
Keywords: Disease; Health; Hong Kong; Smoking; Youth
Adolescents' Emotional Distress: Current Situation and Intervention – Siu Man HSU Ying Ying WONG
Siu Man HSU
Supervisor (Wellness Mind Center), The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
Ying Ying WONG
Development Officer (Wellness Mind Center), The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
【Abstract】During adolescence, the critical phase of human development, young people experience rapid physical and emotional changes, as well as challenges in school and interpersonal relationships, which may create great stress. Unresolved stress may accumulate to cause different levels of emotional suffering. This article outlines the current situation, causes and effects of emotional distress in adolescents. It also suggests the importance of practical experience in promoting emotional health education.
Keywords: Adolescent; Emotional Distress; Emotional Health Education; Wellness
Preventing Youth Suicide – Developing Positive Attitudes and Values – Paul S. F. YIP Angie K. Y. SHUM Daniel W. M. LUNG Eliza S. Y. LAI
Paul S. F. YIP
Center Director, The Hong Kong Jockey Club Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention
Angie K. Y. SHUM
Training Consultant, The Hong Kong Jockey Club Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention
Daniel W. M. LUNG
Program Development Officer, The Hong Kong Jockey Club Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention
Eliza S. Y. LAI
Project Officer, The Hong Kong Jockey Club Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention
【Abstract】The suicide rate among young people has risen in recent years. In 2015, our centre launched a“Thematic network project on developing students’ positive attitudes and values”. Together with core schools, we aimed to promote evidence-based mental health enhancement programmes within the school. The programmes adopted cognitive behavioural therapy and positive psychology as conceptual frameworks. The results indicated that the programmes were effective to a certain extent. Teacher self-efficacy in teaching mental health-related programmes and recommendations are discussed in the last section.
Keywords: Suicide Prevention; Mental Health; Positive Attitude; Values; Evidence-based
Positive Education and the Whole-Person Mental Wellness of College Students - Alex C. K. CHAN
Alex C. K. CHAN
Assistant Professor, Department of Counselling & Psychology, Hong Kong Shue Yan University
【Abstract】In recent years, the public has become concerned about the emotional well-being of Hong Kong college students. Some post-secondary institutions have proactively launched new courses related to positive education with the expectation of improving the whole-person mental wellness of college students. This study also explores the importance and challenges of implementing positive education in Hong Kong post-secondary institutions. The author suggests that it is necessary to consider the institutional long-term development blueprint, person-fit and context fit when promoting, implementing and practicing positive education.
Keywords: Positive Education, College Student, Mental Wellness, Person-fit, Context-fit
~Sharing Column ~ The Double-edged Nature of Technology: The Impact of Young People’s Use of Smartphones and Online Games on Their Wellness - Ka Yu CHAN
Ka Yu CHAN
Liberal Studies Teacher, Ng Wah Catholic Secondary School