The True "You"

Have you ever stopped to think about who you really are? It is important to be true to yourself. This means that you are able to think and act according to what you believe. This can be difficult to do, especially when peer pressure is involved. However, it is important to not change who you are in order to gain acceptance.

As you read each question and think about the answers, consider how you would act according to the positive character qualities mentioned earlier in the lesson.

1. Do you act differently online or through the use of a cell phone than you would if that person were standing in front of you? Is that safe? Healthy?
2. Do you respond to something your friend says, with which you disagree, in the same way you respond to your dating partner if they say something with which you disagree?
3. Do you speak up if you notice that someone is acting in a way that challenges one of the six qualities of character development?
4. Do you ever think about the long-term consequences of your actions for yourself and others affected?
5. What outside influences do you think affected your decision to act in that manner?

- State of South Carolina Department of Education Comprehensive Health Education Instructional Units and Resources for Sexual Abuse and Sexual Assault Prevention Standards and Performance Indicators, p. 104