As young adults continue to change through the human life cycle, they need to be cognizant that individuals in every state of the cycle have unique needs, concerns and challenges. As students begin to contemplate their futures, the issues of relationships and sexuality become a concern. The importance of mature relationships, commitment and preparation for parenting become more relevant. Other than the first year of life, adolescence is the period of fastest growth. Adolescence is a time when one's lifestyle can be active, busy and stressful.
Good nutrition is important both to growth and to meet the energy needs for an active life.
The ability to analyze nutritional information in diets, on food labels and in recipes will help students make sound nutritional choices and reject deceptive nutritional claims. Understanding the relationship between diet and exercise, nutrition and disease prevention can assist students in making good health decisions both now and throughout the life cycle. Because students at this level are making many consumer decisions, they need opportunities to analyze health services, products and information, including costs and benefits as well as the influence of medical research and technology on consumer decisions. Life management skills should address the changes experienced in a young adult's hectic life. Goal setting and decision making are important skills that will help students prepare for the challenges of adulthood.