Section 4.2 Social challenges

Site:	UR - Elearning Platform
Course:	CD60143: Human Developmental Psychology
Book:	Section 4.2 Social challenges

Printed by:	Guest user
Date:	Friday, 19 December 2025, 7:17 AM

Description

Read the content on some social challenges that are faced by adolescent learners in Rwandan secondary.

1. Social challenges in Rwanda are described
2. Summary of social challenges faced by adolescent learners in schools

1. Social challenges in Rwanda are described

Learners face a variety of social challenges in school as they navigate the complex transition from childhood to adulthood. During this stage, peer relationships become increasingly important, and many students struggle with issues such as peer pressure, bullying, social exclusion, and the need to belong to a group. These challenges can affect their self-esteem, academic engagement, and overall well-being. Adolescents may also face difficulties in communication, managing conflicts, or interacting with peers from diverse cultural and social backgrounds. In addition, the influence of social media has added new pressures related to image and acceptance. Understanding these social challenges is essential for educators, parents, and counselors to provide appropriate support and promote a healthy school environment where all students can thrive socially and emotionally.

In Rwanda, unplanned pregnancy and prevailing gender norms contribute significantly to girls leaving school. Returning to school after leaving is often difficult, as girls face stigma from both teachers and parents. Many parents already expect girls to perform poorly compared to boys, believing their ultimate role is to become good wives and mothers (USAID, 2014; Laterite and Plan, 2014; Pro-Femmes Twese Hamwe and VSO, 2013). The most reported perpetrator of sexual violence are girls’ current boyfriend or husband/partner (NISR et al., 2016; RWAMREC, 2013). Sugar daddies are especially implicated, as adolescent girls are at high risk of manipulation and abuse by older men who provide money and gifts, leaving girls feeling as if they cannot refuse sex as a ‘pay back’ (Abbot et al., 2015, Ministry of Health, 2011). Other research has found that classmates and teachers also perpetrate sexual violence against girls (Pontalti, 2013).

2. Summary of social challenges faced by adolescent learners in schools

Social challenges	Description
Peer pressure	Influence to conform to peers’ behaviors or values, which may lead to risky or inappropriate actions.
Bullying and cyberbullying	Physical, verbal, or online harassment can result in fear, isolation, or low self-esteem.
Social exclusion	Feeling left out of peer groups or social activities, leading to loneliness and alienation.
Identity and group Belonging	Struggles with finding a social group that aligns with one’s developing identity or interests.
Poor communication Skills	Difficulty expressing oneself or interacting effectively, which can hinder relationship-building.
Cultural and social diversity	Challenges in interacting with peers from different backgrounds due to biases or lack of awareness.
Conflict with peers	Frequent misunderstandings or disputes, sometimes leading to aggression or broken friendships.
Pressure to maintain Image	Stress from maintaining a certain social image, especially on social media platforms.
Addiction to internet and social media	The digital age has brought new challenges, with many adolescents spending excessive time online. This can lead to reduced physical activity, social isolation, and exposure to cyberbullying or unrealistic comparisons, which affect mental health

Sexual based violence	Girls may face challenges such as early pregnancies, menstrual hygiene issues and cultural expectations that prioritize boys’ education, gender-based violence and harassment in or around school environments.
Social and relationship challenges	During adolescence, social dynamics have become more complex. Teens begin to form romantic relationships, explore their sexual identity, and seek acceptance from peers. These experiences can lead to confusion, anxiety, or even discrimination, especially for those questioning their gender or sexual orientation.
School dropout	For several reasons, situation can arise where the child can no longer cope with school, subsequently, she/he may drop out. The most obvious reasons for dropping out of the school might include Poor teacher-student and student-student relationship, continual failures, Peer group influence and family background.