Teaching Non-Violence to Children and Teens

"The first principle of non-violent action is that of non-cooperation with everything humiliating." MAHATMA GANDHI (1869-1948), Indian lawyer and leader of the Indian independence movement against British rule.

This article is dedicated to the recent victim of fraternity hazing in one of the top universities in the Philippines.

Why do some children behave aggresively? Violently? Psychologist Albert Bandura in 1965 claims that a child's aggressive and violent acts are partly influenced by what he sees. Aside from aggressive behaviors exhibited by a parent (or parents) that are seen, observed and experienced by a child, children inside the home, violence in television, movies, and other media including books and computers) make children act with aggression and violence. This so-called "observed violence" results to overt violence in children.

Later research has shown that viewing violent acts on TV and in the movies affects people in other negative ways: (1) It decreases viewers concerns about victims suffering. (2) it decreases viewers sensitivity to violent acts and (3) it increases the likelihood that viewers will emulate the aggressive acts depicted in the show or movie. Young children and teens are especially vulnerable to the effects of "observed violence." Parents and teachers have the responsibility to teach non violence to children and teens.

The role of parents and teachers

Children learn by example. The behavior, values and attitudes of parents and siblings have strong influence in children. Keep violence out of the home. Values of respect, honesty and pride in your family and heritage can be important sources of strength for children and teens most especially when they are confronted with negative peer pressure, live in a violent neighborhood or attend a rough mainstream school.

Be firm with children about the possible dangers of violent behavior. Praise children when they solve problems constructively without violence. Children are more likely to repeat good behaviors when they are rewarded with attention and praise. Parents should always give their children a consistent and strong loving relationship to make them feel secure. Love and attention will help them develop a sense of trust. Children and teens depend on parents for encouragement, protection and support as they learn to think for themselves.

Some ideas for safe media viewing

Make sure you know what TV shows your children and teens watch. Watch movies with them. Know the video games they play. Talk to your children about the violence that they see on TV shows, in the movies and in video games. Help them understand how painful it would be in real life. Talk to them about the serious consequences of violent behaviors. Discuss with them how to solve problems without violence. Help children and teens to stand up against violence.