Raising Positive Kids

Youth violence seems to be on the rise, and this concerns many parents. Before a child reaches the age of 18, he or she will see nearly 100,000 violent images, and this can be very damaging, especially if children are not being raised in a strong positive environment. The American Psychological Association says, ”Children are more aggressive and grow up more likely to become involved in violence – either as a victimizer or as a victim – if they witness violent acts”.

So, what to do? Even as an infant, children are involved in moral growth and development. An infant can think and act morally, mostly from the response he or she gets from the authority figure in his or her life. The infant quickly understands that he or she should do the things that elicit approval from the authority figure, not pain or disapproval. Authority figures are not just Mum or Dad – the characters a child sees on TV or in video games are viewed as a teacher, mentor, nurturer and care giver – so whether it’s Batman, Spiderman, or violent criminals in police dramas – the child absorbs their actions.

Mike Friganiotis,Cairns Family Relationship Centr
Community Education & Development Officer