BESE-133 Solved Assignment 2025-2026
Answer the following questions in about 500 words each.
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Discuss the ethical issues in Adolescence Education. Explain the role of teachers in handling ethical issues of adolescents.
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Define ‘sexual health’ and ‘sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Describe the sexually transmitted infections and their symptoms.
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What do you understand by ‘Counselling’? Discuss the counselling skills that are required for a counsellor.
Answer:
Question:-01
Discuss the ethical issues in Adolescence Education. Explain the role of teachers in handling ethical issues of adolescents.
Answer:
1. Introduction to Ethical Issues in Adolescence Education
Adolescence is a transformative stage of human development, marked by rapid physical, emotional, social, and cognitive changes. During this period, adolescents face a variety of new experiences and challenges that can raise complex ethical issues. Adolescence education—also known as life skills or value-based education—is designed to help students navigate this phase responsibly. It covers topics such as sexuality, relationships, substance abuse, peer pressure, and self-identity.
However, while adolescence education is necessary for healthy development, it also introduces a host of ethical concerns. These concerns relate to how sensitive topics are taught, the values imparted, the rights of students, and the responsibilities of educators and institutions. Addressing ethical issues carefully and respectfully is essential for ensuring that adolescence education is both effective and morally responsible.
2. Key Ethical Issues in Adolescence Education
Several ethical dilemmas can arise in the delivery and content of adolescence education, especially within culturally diverse or conservative contexts. These include:
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Confidentiality and Privacy: Adolescents may share personal or sensitive information during classroom discussions or counseling sessions. Teachers must respect students’ privacy and avoid disclosing such information unless it involves potential harm or legal obligations. Breaching confidentiality can damage trust and discourage students from seeking help.
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Cultural Sensitivity vs. Curriculum Content: Topics such as sex education, LGBTQ+ rights, and reproductive health may conflict with local customs, religious beliefs, or parental expectations. Balancing curriculum requirements with respect for cultural and familial values is a critical ethical challenge.
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Informed Consent and Parental Involvement: There is often debate over whether adolescents should be taught certain topics without parental consent. Educators must decide how much autonomy to give students while still involving parents in a way that respects family values and promotes open dialogue.
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Bias and Moral Judgment: Teachers must be careful not to impose their personal beliefs on students. Presenting information objectively and without judgment is crucial to fostering independent thinking and moral reasoning.
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Student Autonomy and Agency: Adolescents are developing their identities and belief systems. They must be allowed the freedom to express their views and make personal choices, as long as they are safe and respectful. Denying this autonomy can hinder their emotional growth and confidence.
3. Impact of Ethical Missteps in Adolescence Education
Failing to handle ethical issues properly in adolescence education can lead to negative consequences. Students may feel misunderstood, disrespected, or shamed, resulting in decreased participation or complete disengagement. In some cases, poor handling of sensitive topics may contribute to psychological distress, misinformation, or reinforcement of harmful stereotypes.
Furthermore, communities may resist or reject adolescence education programs if they feel their ethical or cultural boundaries are being ignored. This can lead to the removal of essential educational initiatives that benefit young people, affecting long-term health and social outcomes.
4. Role of Teachers in Addressing Ethical Issues
Teachers play a central role in navigating the ethical complexities of adolescence education. Their influence, sensitivity, and professionalism can ensure that ethical standards are maintained while providing meaningful and supportive learning experiences. Teachers can support adolescents ethically through the following strategies:
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Maintain Confidentiality with Care: Teachers must foster a safe environment where students feel secure in expressing themselves. Confidentiality should be upheld unless there is a risk of harm. In such cases, teachers should follow appropriate procedures, ensuring students understand the limits of confidentiality beforehand.
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Promote Inclusivity and Respect for Diversity: Teachers should acknowledge and respect differences in culture, religion, gender, and values among students. Class discussions should be managed in a way that welcomes different perspectives while promoting empathy and tolerance.
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Adopt a Non-Judgmental Approach: Teachers should present facts neutrally and avoid projecting personal biases. Whether discussing sexuality, substance use, or peer relationships, the focus should be on informed decision-making rather than moral evaluation.
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Facilitate Open and Honest Communication: Teachers should encourage students to ask questions and share concerns without fear of ridicule or punishment. Active listening and compassionate responses foster trust and engagement.
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Use Age-Appropriate and Evidence-Based Content: Materials and discussions should match students’ cognitive and emotional maturity. Teachers must stay updated on scientifically accurate, developmentally suitable content and use teaching aids that are sensitive and relevant.
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Engage Parents and Community Thoughtfully: Teachers should work with parents and community leaders to explain the goals and benefits of adolescence education. Regular meetings, open dialogues, and shared resources can ease resistance and build trust.
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Provide Guidance and Emotional Support: Adolescents often need more than just information—they need someone to talk to. Teachers can serve as mentors who help students reflect on their choices and values in a supportive and ethical manner.
Conclusion
Adolescence education is essential for guiding young individuals through one of the most critical phases of their lives, but it brings with it numerous ethical challenges. Issues such as confidentiality, cultural sensitivity, student autonomy, and unbiased teaching require careful handling to ensure a respectful and effective learning experience. Teachers are at the forefront of this effort. By fostering trust, modeling ethical behavior, and creating a safe and inclusive environment, teachers can support adolescents in making informed, respectful, and responsible life choices. Ultimately, ethically sound adolescence education not only benefits individual students but also contributes to a more empathetic, informed, and socially responsible society.
Question:-02
Define ‘sexual health’ and ‘sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Describe the sexually transmitted infections and their symptoms.
Answer:
1. Definition of Sexual Health
Sexual health is a state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being in relation to sexuality. It is not merely the absence of disease or dysfunction, but a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, along with the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination, and violence.
Sexual health includes the ability to make informed decisions about sexual activity, access appropriate healthcare services, and understand the responsibilities and consequences associated with sexual behavior. It also involves comprehensive education about human anatomy, reproduction, contraception, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Ensuring sexual health means respecting the rights of individuals to have control over and make decisions about their sexual and reproductive health without facing stigma or discrimination.
2. Definition of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that are primarily spread through sexual contact. This includes vaginal, anal, and oral sex. STIs are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites and can affect anyone who is sexually active, regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation. Common STIs include HIV/AIDS, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, herpes, and human papillomavirus (HPV).
STIs may not always show immediate symptoms, which makes them particularly dangerous because individuals can unknowingly transmit infections to others. If left untreated, STIs can cause serious health problems such as infertility, organ damage, complications in pregnancy, and increased risk of acquiring other infections. Regular testing, safe sex practices, and proper education are crucial in the prevention and control of STIs.
3. Types of Sexually Transmitted Infections and Their Symptoms
There are several common STIs, each with distinct causes, symptoms, and consequences. Understanding these infections is essential for early detection, treatment, and prevention.
HIV/AIDS (Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome)
HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system, weakening the body’s ability to fight off infections and diseases. If untreated, it can lead to AIDS, a potentially life-threatening condition.
HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system, weakening the body’s ability to fight off infections and diseases. If untreated, it can lead to AIDS, a potentially life-threatening condition.
Symptoms: In the early stages, HIV may cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue, sore throat, and swollen glands. As the infection progresses, individuals may experience weight loss, chronic diarrhea, skin rashes, night sweats, and frequent infections.
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that commonly affects young people and is often asymptomatic.
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that commonly affects young people and is often asymptomatic.
Symptoms in females: Unusual vaginal discharge, burning sensation during urination, pain during intercourse, or bleeding between periods.
Symptoms in males: Penile discharge, pain or burning during urination, and testicular pain.
Symptoms in males: Penile discharge, pain or burning during urination, and testicular pain.
Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is another bacterial STI that affects mucous membranes in the reproductive tract, mouth, throat, and eyes.
Gonorrhea is another bacterial STI that affects mucous membranes in the reproductive tract, mouth, throat, and eyes.
Symptoms in females: Increased vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, painful urination, or abnormal bleeding.
Symptoms in males: Painful urination, white, yellow, or green discharge from the penis, and swollen testicles.
Symptoms in males: Painful urination, white, yellow, or green discharge from the penis, and swollen testicles.
Syphilis
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that progresses in stages: primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary.
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that progresses in stages: primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary.
Primary stage: Painless sores (chancres) at the site of infection.
Secondary stage: Skin rashes, mucous membrane lesions, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
Latent and tertiary stages: If untreated, the infection can damage the heart, brain, and other organs.
Secondary stage: Skin rashes, mucous membrane lesions, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
Latent and tertiary stages: If untreated, the infection can damage the heart, brain, and other organs.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV is a group of viruses, some of which cause genital warts while others can lead to cancer, including cervical, anal, and throat cancer.
HPV is a group of viruses, some of which cause genital warts while others can lead to cancer, including cervical, anal, and throat cancer.
Symptoms: Most HPV infections are asymptomatic and go away on their own. Some types cause genital warts (small growths on or around the genitals), while others may lead to abnormal Pap test results in women.
Genital Herpes (caused by Herpes Simplex Virus – HSV)
Herpes is a viral infection that causes painful sores or blisters on the genitals, anus, or mouth.
Herpes is a viral infection that causes painful sores or blisters on the genitals, anus, or mouth.
Symptoms: Itching or pain in the genital area, followed by the appearance of blisters or open sores. Outbreaks can recur periodically, often triggered by stress or illness.
Trichomoniasis
Caused by a parasite, trichomoniasis is one of the most common curable STIs.
Caused by a parasite, trichomoniasis is one of the most common curable STIs.
Symptoms in females: Foul-smelling vaginal discharge, itching, redness, and discomfort during urination or intercourse.
Symptoms in males: Mild or no symptoms, sometimes irritation or discharge from the penis.
Symptoms in males: Mild or no symptoms, sometimes irritation or discharge from the penis.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and is spread through sexual contact, blood, or from mother to child at birth.
Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and is spread through sexual contact, blood, or from mother to child at birth.
Symptoms: Fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), nausea, and dark urine. Chronic infection can lead to liver damage or cancer.
Conclusion
Sexual health is an essential aspect of overall well-being that encompasses informed decision-making, responsible behavior, and access to healthcare services. Sexually transmitted infections pose serious risks to individuals and communities when left untreated or misunderstood. Educating individuals—especially adolescents—about STIs, their symptoms, prevention, and treatment is crucial in promoting healthy sexual behavior and reducing the spread of infections. Early diagnosis, regular screenings, and the practice of safe sex are key measures to maintain sexual health and protect against STIs. Understanding and discussing these issues openly, without stigma, is vital for building a healthy and informed society.
Question:-03
What do you understand by ‘Counselling’? Discuss the counselling skills that are required for a counsellor.
Answer:
1. Understanding the Concept of Counselling
Counselling is a professional and confidential process aimed at helping individuals manage and overcome personal, emotional, psychological, or social challenges. It involves a trained counsellor who creates a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Through effective communication, active listening, and guidance, the counsellor assists individuals in gaining clarity, setting goals, and developing coping strategies to deal with difficulties.
Counselling is not about giving advice or making decisions for someone. Instead, it empowers clients to understand themselves better and find their own solutions. It can be short-term or long-term and may address a variety of issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, academic concerns, grief, or career decisions. In educational settings, counselling also plays a crucial role in promoting mental well-being and supporting students’ emotional development.
2. Importance of Counselling in Personal and Social Development
Counselling serves as a vital tool in enhancing an individual’s mental and emotional health. It promotes personal growth, emotional resilience, and self-awareness. In schools, counselling supports students in managing academic pressure, peer relationships, identity concerns, and future planning. For adults, it helps address issues such as marital conflicts, work stress, or trauma.
Counselling also contributes to social well-being. It fosters empathy, improves communication, and enhances problem-solving skills, which are essential in building healthy relationships and communities. By helping individuals understand their behavior and emotions, counselling also reduces stigma around mental health and encourages a culture of openness and support.
3. Key Counselling Skills Required for a Counsellor
A successful counsellor must possess a range of skills that enable them to connect with clients and facilitate meaningful change. These skills are not only technical but also personal and emotional. Below are the core counselling skills every counsellor should develop and master:
Active Listening
Active listening is more than hearing the client’s words; it involves fully concentrating, understanding, and responding to what the client is saying. This includes observing non-verbal cues like body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions. Active listening builds trust and helps clients feel heard and understood.
Active listening is more than hearing the client’s words; it involves fully concentrating, understanding, and responding to what the client is saying. This includes observing non-verbal cues like body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions. Active listening builds trust and helps clients feel heard and understood.
Empathy
Empathy is the ability to understand and share another person’s feelings. It allows the counsellor to connect with the client’s emotional experience without becoming emotionally overwhelmed themselves. Demonstrating empathy helps the client feel validated and encourages openness.
Empathy is the ability to understand and share another person’s feelings. It allows the counsellor to connect with the client’s emotional experience without becoming emotionally overwhelmed themselves. Demonstrating empathy helps the client feel validated and encourages openness.
Effective Communication
Clear and compassionate communication is essential in counselling. This involves speaking in a way that is supportive, respectful, and non-directive. The counsellor should avoid jargon and use simple language to ensure understanding. Good communication also includes the ability to ask open-ended questions that encourage reflection.
Clear and compassionate communication is essential in counselling. This involves speaking in a way that is supportive, respectful, and non-directive. The counsellor should avoid jargon and use simple language to ensure understanding. Good communication also includes the ability to ask open-ended questions that encourage reflection.
Unconditional Positive Regard
Coined by psychologist Carl Rogers, this skill involves accepting and respecting the client without judgment. The counsellor creates a safe environment where the client feels valued regardless of their actions, beliefs, or emotions. This acceptance promotes self-worth and facilitates growth.
Coined by psychologist Carl Rogers, this skill involves accepting and respecting the client without judgment. The counsellor creates a safe environment where the client feels valued regardless of their actions, beliefs, or emotions. This acceptance promotes self-worth and facilitates growth.
Genuineness (Congruence)
Being genuine means the counsellor is honest, transparent, and consistent in their behavior. Clients can detect insincerity quickly, so counsellors must be authentic while maintaining professional boundaries. Genuineness helps build a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust.
Being genuine means the counsellor is honest, transparent, and consistent in their behavior. Clients can detect insincerity quickly, so counsellors must be authentic while maintaining professional boundaries. Genuineness helps build a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust.
Confidentiality
Maintaining confidentiality is a fundamental ethical principle in counselling. Clients must be assured that what they share will remain private, except in cases where there is a risk of harm to themselves or others. Respecting confidentiality builds trust and encourages full disclosure.
Maintaining confidentiality is a fundamental ethical principle in counselling. Clients must be assured that what they share will remain private, except in cases where there is a risk of harm to themselves or others. Respecting confidentiality builds trust and encourages full disclosure.
Patience and Tolerance
Clients may take time to open up or to show progress. A good counsellor remains patient and avoids pushing clients to change too quickly. Tolerance for different values, lifestyles, and behaviors is also crucial in providing unbiased support.
Clients may take time to open up or to show progress. A good counsellor remains patient and avoids pushing clients to change too quickly. Tolerance for different values, lifestyles, and behaviors is also crucial in providing unbiased support.
Problem-Solving Skills
While the counsellor does not solve problems for the client, they guide the client in exploring options, evaluating consequences, and making decisions. This involves helping clients think critically and take responsibility for their choices.
While the counsellor does not solve problems for the client, they guide the client in exploring options, evaluating consequences, and making decisions. This involves helping clients think critically and take responsibility for their choices.
Observation and Assessment
Counsellors must be observant and able to assess a client’s mental, emotional, and behavioral condition. Subtle changes in demeanor, speech, or mood can provide valuable insights. Proper assessment enables the counsellor to tailor the approach to meet the client’s specific needs.
Counsellors must be observant and able to assess a client’s mental, emotional, and behavioral condition. Subtle changes in demeanor, speech, or mood can provide valuable insights. Proper assessment enables the counsellor to tailor the approach to meet the client’s specific needs.
Self-Awareness and Reflective Practice
A counsellor must be aware of their own beliefs, emotions, and biases. Self-awareness prevents the counsellor’s personal issues from interfering with the counselling process. Reflective practice—regularly evaluating one’s own sessions—helps improve effectiveness and promotes professional growth.
A counsellor must be aware of their own beliefs, emotions, and biases. Self-awareness prevents the counsellor’s personal issues from interfering with the counselling process. Reflective practice—regularly evaluating one’s own sessions—helps improve effectiveness and promotes professional growth.
Ethical and Cultural Competence
Counsellors must adhere to ethical guidelines, including respecting client autonomy, avoiding dual relationships, and being culturally sensitive. Understanding and respecting cultural backgrounds and values ensure that counselling is inclusive and effective for diverse populations.
Counsellors must adhere to ethical guidelines, including respecting client autonomy, avoiding dual relationships, and being culturally sensitive. Understanding and respecting cultural backgrounds and values ensure that counselling is inclusive and effective for diverse populations.
Conclusion
Counselling is a vital process that supports individuals in understanding themselves and managing life’s challenges in a healthy and constructive way. It is grounded in empathy, trust, and mutual respect, and depends heavily on the skills and ethical standards of the counsellor. Essential counselling skills such as active listening, empathy, confidentiality, and effective communication allow counsellors to build strong relationships and provide meaningful support. As mental health awareness grows, the role of skilled counsellors becomes even more critical in schools, workplaces, and communities, promoting well-being and personal development across all stages of life.
