Week 8: Harmful Traditional Practices
Subject: Social Studies
Class: JSS 3
Week of the First Term: 8th Week
Topic: Harmful Traditional Practices
Sub-Topic: Meaning and Effects of Harmful Traditional Practices: Practices that Bring Physical, Mental, Social, and Health Dangers
Objectives
At the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
- Define harmful traditional practices.
- List examples of harmful traditional practices.
- Explain the effects of harmful traditional practices on individuals and society.
Entry Behaviour
Students should have basic knowledge of cultural practices in their community.
Instructional Materials
- Textbook: Social Studies for JSS 3 by Gbenga M. Babalola
- Posters or charts showing examples of harmful traditional practices
- Video clips highlighting harmful practices around the world
Reference Materials
- Babalola, G. M. (2017). Social Studies for JSS 3. Lagos: Metropolitan Publishers.
- Olagunju, D., Atanda, A., Ubah, H. D., & Gada, A. (2014). Wabp Social Studies For Junior Secondary School Book 3. Lagos: West African Book.
Content
Harmful Traditional Practices
Harmful traditional practices (HTPs) refer to cultural customs or rituals that cause physical, mental, social, and health-related harm to individuals, particularly women and children. These practices are often rooted in historical beliefs and societal norms, making them deeply entrenched within communities.
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Meaning of Harmful Traditional Practices
Harmful traditional practices are actions or rituals that, despite being a part of a community’s culture, have detrimental effects on individuals. They are often justified by cultural, religious, or social beliefs and can vary widely between different societies. Some common examples include:
- Female Genital Mutilation (FGM): The practice of partially or totally removing the external female genitalia for non-medical reasons.
- Child Marriage: The practice of marrying off children, usually girls, at a young age, often before they reach adulthood.
- Honor Killings: The murder of individuals (typically women) believed to have brought dishonor to their family or community.
- Forced Labor or Servitude: The exploitation of individuals, often children, in labor without fair compensation or freedom.
Effects of Harmful Traditional Practices
1. Physical Dangers
Harmful traditional practices often lead to significant physical injuries or health issues. For example:
- Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) can cause severe pain, excessive bleeding, infections, and complications during childbirth. Long-term consequences may include chronic pain and difficulty in sexual relations.
- Child Marriage often results in early pregnancies, which can lead to maternal mortality and severe health complications due to the physical immaturity of young mothers.
2. Mental Dangers
The psychological impact of harmful traditional practices can be profound and long-lasting. Victims may experience:
- Trauma from undergoing harmful practices like FGM or being forced into marriage at a young age. This trauma can manifest as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Stigmatization can lead to feelings of shame and low self-esteem, particularly in cultures where adherence to these practices is highly valued.
3. Social Dangers
Harmful traditional practices can contribute to societal issues such as:
- Gender Inequality: Many HTPs reinforce gender discrimination and the subjugation of women, limiting their opportunities and rights within society.
- Community Division: Individuals who oppose harmful practices may face social ostracism, leading to tensions within families and communities.
4. Health Dangers
The health implications of HTPs extend beyond the individual to affect families and communities. For instance:
- Increased Health Risks: Women who undergo FGM face higher risks of childbirth complications, which can contribute to increased maternal and infant mortality rates in communities.
- Burden on Healthcare Systems: The prevalence of harmful traditional practices can strain healthcare resources, as healthcare providers must address the complications arising from these practices.
Step 1: Introduction
Lesson Presentation (Step-by-Step Procedure)
Others removed.
