What is a "Balanced Social Life"?
It means interacting with others — friends, family, classmates — with politeness, respect, and trust .
This applies both in person and online .
Pillars of a balanced social life
- Trust — being honest with friends and family.
- Mutual respect — valuing others' opinions and feelings.
- Respectful communication — speaking thoughtfully, listening carefully.
- Mindful behaviour — thinking before acting, especially online.
Online interactions during adolescence
- Modern technology has made online platforms widely available for connecting and sharing.
- Use these platforms responsibly for the collective well-being of all.
- Sometimes we — knowingly or unknowingly — use social media carelessly.
- Seeking guidance from elders and teachers can help us use these platforms positively.
A balanced social life means interacting with others — in person and online — with politeness, respect, trust, and mindful behaviour. This creates a favourable and safe environment for everyone.
Work in groups to design posters and pamphlets about responsible social media behaviour. Paste them at designated places in the school. Fill Table 6.4 based on your collective observations.
| Dos | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Be respectful and kind. | Do not share personal photos with strangers / virtual friends. |
| Think before posting. | Do not spread false rumours or misinformation. |
| Protect privacy. | Do not bully, tease, or troll others. |
Cyberbullying involves the use of digital devices — phones, computers, online platforms — to harass others .
Forms of cyberbullying
- Sending misleading messages.
- Spreading false rumours.
- Sharing personal information without consent.
- Making fun of, teasing, or posting personal comments about others.
If someone tries to bully you: Do not feel scared or helpless. Handle it wisely and seek help from parents and teachers.
Be cautious when uploading any picture online or sharing personal information with strangers.