TEEN FOCUS Manual
TEEN FOCUS primarily deals with relationships. It is not intended to cover all issues teens face. This manual is to be used as a springboard for teen related topics. Each section can be used for both teen guys and girls. It is up to the facilitator to use their discretion to break off into gender groupings. Sessions and activities can be presented to the whole group and discussed as a group or the topic can be presented and then break off into smaller groups. Permission is granted to photocopy pages of the manual as long as FOCUS Ministries, Inc. copyright is noted.
TEEN FOCUS contains three basic areas that are foundational to the development of teens as they relate to others and to God. The process of understanding relationships begins with an understanding of the teen’s self-concept. If they are confident in who they are and in their relationship to the Lord, they will have the capacity to make better choices and decisions. Section one helps teens to examine themselves through their eyes, others’ eyes, and God’s eyes. Any handouts mentioned in section one is found in section two.
Section three directs the teens into defining healthy relationships. The term “normal” is not used since each individual’s normal may be different depending on their family of origin and may very well be unhealthy. The teens will analyze their various kinds of relationships as compared to the definition of healthy relationships. Teens will then be able to apply that knowledge to dating relationships. Handouts mentioned in section three are found in section four.
Section five informs teens regarding the identification of abusive relationships, boundaries, and practical steps to stop abusive relationships. Abusive relationships can be guy to girl, girl to guy, girl to girl, and guy to guy. The theme of this section is “Who’s Behind the Wheel” since most teens look forward to the freedom of driving a car. The application of the theme is the person behind the steering wheel controls the car. The passengers are at the mercy of the driver. Teens need to choose the driver (companions) wisely. Handouts mentioned in section five are found in section six.
By taking steps in the area of prevention, it is our hope and prayer that teens will be better equipped to choose “healthy” people to travel life’s journey and not experience destructive relationships that will destroy their spirit. It is because of our love for teens that we have developed TEEN FOCUS.
Authors:
Paula Silva, President of FOCUS Ministries, Inc.
Brenda Spivey, Support Group Coordinator of FOCUS Ministries, Inc.
