This page is a critical part of the Grade 11 Life Orientation Term 1 curriculum. It examines the external pressures that shape how we interact with others, building on our previous study of rights and responsibilities and personal values.
Social and Cultural Views Influencing Relationships
In Life Orientation Grade 11, we explore how the society and culture we are born into can dictate the “rules” of our relationships. While these views provide a sense of belonging, they can also sometimes conflict with our modern understanding of well-being and individual freedom.
1. Cultural Influences on Relationships
Cultural norms are the shared expectations and rules that guide behavior within a specific group. These norms significantly affect how relationships are formed and maintained.
- Arranged Marriages: In some cultures, parents or elders choose partners for young people. In extreme cases, this includes child brides. These relationships are often based on tradition and family alliances rather than love, freedom of choice, or personal compatibility.
- Traditional Rites: Culture may dictate how you speak to elders or the steps you must take before a relationship is recognized by the community (such as lobola).
2. Social Views and Gender Roles
Social views often define “gender roles”—the behaviors that a society considers appropriate for men and women.
- Power Imbalances: If a society believes that males should be “in charge,” the female in the relationship will have less equality and less say in decision-making.
- Assigned Roles: Relationships may be based on what a person should do (e.g., “the woman must cook”) rather than the individual’s actual needs or feelings. This can lead to detrimental relationships where equality is ignored.
3. The Social Generation Gap and Technology
A “generation gap” occurs when there is a difference in opinions or values between younger people and their parents or grandparents. In Term 1, we specifically look at how technology influences this gap.
- Conflict Over Media: Parents may worry about the time children spend on social media (like WhatsApp, TikTok, or MXit) or may ban certain apps entirely.
- The Result: This often leads to family conflict, as the younger generation views technology as an essential tool for individuality, while the older generation may see it as a distraction or a danger.
4. Qualities Sought in Different Relationships
We look for different qualities (characteristics) depending on the type of relationship. These expectations are often shaped by our social upbringing.
| Relationship Type | Qualities Usually Sought |
| Romantic | Love, honesty, faithfulness, and mutual acceptance. |
| Grandparents | Wisdom, interest in your life, and an opportunity to show care. |
| Teachers | Guidance, academic help, and mentorship. |
| Peers | Loyalty, shared interests, and support. |
5. Discussion: How Social and Cultural Views Influence Relationships
When answering exam questions on this topic, consider these three major factors:
- Communication Styles: Some cultures value directness, while others view it as disrespectful to be too “blunt” with elders.
- Expectations of Success: Society may pressure you to choose a career based on status rather than your own goal-setting.
- Choice of Partner: Social views on religion, race, and class can influence who your family “allows” you to date or marry.
Activity 15: Analyse the Generation Gap
Review the conflict reasons between parents and children to answer these questions:
- Identify: According to your observations, what are the two most common reasons parents and teenagers fight?
- Evaluate: Do you think parents have a right to complain about your time spent on media? Provide a reason that references your responsibility to focus on your prioritised life goals.
Next Lesson: How to stay true to yourself while in a group: Individuality within Relationships.
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