THE BREAKDOWN OF THE FAMILY

Mar 24, 2016 Editorial

In Guyana as in other countries, the family is the oldest and perhaps the most important institution in society, but the breakdown of traditional family values has placed the country and people at a crossroad.
Parents and most adults are aware of the sexual abuse and violence perpetrated against children, especially those from poor homes but do not always come to their rescue. There are endless reports of increasing violence in schools and in the wider society, as well as the abuse, rape and murder of children all across the country.
And while such horrible acts have left most in society confused, many are asking: Where did society go wrong? Why is the government not acting faster to prevent or reduce domestic violence and the abuse of children? Children should be cherished and loved at all times because they are the most precious gifts to parents and society at large. So why are they being abused and molested and have to endure violence in the home?
The answer lies with the parents and those in authority whose responsibility is to protect children who are the most vulnerable in society.
Today the nation is witnessing the breakdown of the traditional values of family life. This is demonstrated by the many acts of violence and abuse perpetrated against women and children throughout the country. Witnessing domestic violence is the single best predictor of juvenile delinquency and adult criminality. It is also the main reason why children run away from their homes or drop out from school.
Preventing domestic violence and abuse against children starts with the family but those in authority must act to end this scourge on society.
The emotional and behavioral responses of most children who witness domestic violence may include fear, guilt, shame, sleep disturbances, sadness, depression and anger. Some may act out by withdrawing and keeping to themselves while others may exhibit signs of anxiety, fear and a short attention span which may result in poor school performance and attendance and violent acts. These issues must be addressed urgently.
Parents, guardians and society in general must play an important role in children’s life, especially during their early development. Children with loving families and stable homes are more likely to do well in school, have healthy relationships and become decent citizens than those in unstable, abusive and violent homes.
Children from abusive homes have higher risks of dropping out of school, abuse alcohol and drugs and become anti-social and delinquent. They often seem fine to the outside world but inside they suffer from terrible pain. They may feel rage, embarrassment and humiliation. Many are isolated and vulnerable and are starved for attention, affection and approval.
Family violence continues to have lasting effects on both children and society. Children who are abused or are sexually molested by family members are expected to keep the family secret, and refrain from talking to each other about their abuse and molestation.
Studies have shown that children who are raised in abusive and violent homes learn from an early age that violence is an effective way to resolve conflicts and solve problems. Many are likely to engage in unruly behaviour at school, display increased aggression against peers and would, in most cases, progress to become hard-core criminals.
In this regard, the Ministry of Education should start a programme of rehabilitation for those students who were abused and are likely to be involved in violence in and out of school. Counseling is needed to deal with deviant students in the schools as well as those students who exhibit negative behaviors and unstable emotional responses.
It is the responsibility of parents, educators and teachers to help children feel loved and secure in the home and at school and they should be taught how to cope with stress and that violence is not the answer to their problems.

Latest News

THE BREAKDOWN OF THE FAMILY

Related

Similar Articles

The Glenn Lall Show | January, 20th, 2025

Follow on Tik Tok @Glennlall

THE BLUNT OF THE DAY

Sports

West Indies U19 Women secure first win, advance to Super Six with...

“We will have a similar approach”

Sam, Fernandes outshine competition at GCF/Moo...

Ramzan, Fraser pilot Demerara U15 to strong win...

Dave West Indian Imports gets Everest Cricket...

Interim leadership agreed to dissolve GCF...

Features/Columnists

Berbice and Jagdeo’s legacy

OAS Secretary General Election and renewed OAS Consensus

Ministers and business ownership

Publisher’s Note

Weekend Cartoon

Bridge Watch

Demerara Harbour Bridge

> Berbice Bridge […]

THE BREAKDOWN OF THE FAMILY

Share this:

Related

Similar Articles

The Glenn Lall Show | January, 20th, 2025

Follow on Tik Tok @Glennlall

THE BLUNT OF THE DAY

Sports

Features/Columnists

Publisher’s Note

Weekend Cartoon

Bridge Watch

Demerara Harbour Bridge

> Berbice Bridge […]