YOUTH VOICES ON LIFESTYLE AND SAFETY: UNDERSTANDING BEHAVIOUR AND BASIC LIFE SUPPORT AWARENESS

This study, "Voices of Youth: Exploring Behaviour, Awareness, and Lifestyle Patterns," investigates the intricate lifestyle patterns, digital habits, and awareness levels among patha mupparu, Pedavegi mandal youth aged 15-24. Employing a quantitative survey-based research design with a structured questionnaire of 100 questions administered via convenience sampling, the research gathered insights into six key areas: demographics, food and health habits, social media usage, behavioral trends, sustainability awareness, and opinions/recommendations. Key findings indicate a demographic predominantly comprising 19–22-year-old females from low-income nuclear families, with moderate engagement in extracurricular activities and limited physical activity. The survey highlights significant concerns regarding junk food consumption (65% weekly, driven by taste and convenience), low awareness of associated health risks (34% not very aware), and prevalent fatigue. Digital habits reveal high social media usage (36% spend 1-3 hours daily, primarily on Instagram for entertainment), leading to productivity issues, distraction, and occasional addiction, although cyberbullying is rare. Behavioural patterns show youth grappling with stress, mood swings, impatience, and reduced attention spans, yet many manage digital-real life balance and do not report loneliness. Environmental awareness is limited (34% only somewhat aware of climate change), with inconsistent eco-friendly practices, though there's support for technology in sustainability and environmental education in schools. The youth recommend stricter regulations on junk food advertising and digital usage, enhanced mental health support in schools, and mandatory physical activity. This study underscores the need for collaborative interventions from educational institutions, families, and policymakers to foster holistic development, promoting healthier choices, mental well-being, sustainable living, and responsible digital citizenship among the youth.