Resent research has shown a worrying increase in the number of violent crimes perpetrated by individuals under the age of 18 years. Some psychologists have proposed the idea that this trend can be attributed to a diminished interest of parents and teachers in fostering both social and emotional growth in children. I strongly agree with this view since under development of self-control and interpersonal skills hinders and restrains such hostile behaviors.
To begin with, parents instill in children the concepts of emotions and concern for the feelings of others that underlie the ability to interact successfully with other people. In the current world with endless schedules, a significant number of parents grapple with providing ample time for their children owing to work and other personal issues. Such reality leads to emotionally unsatisfactory relations with children which makes them more aggressive and frustrated. For instance, children who were raised in environments that did not involve healthy emotional regulation may end up seeing violent solutions to problems when they arise. It follows that if parents do not participate in the bid to promote their children’s emotions, it may easily result in criminal acts.
Moreover, children’s social development can be impacted by the educational system which in many cases, as many studies indicate, traps in emotional and social illiteracy but classifies as accomplishments more of the academic focus. Although disciplines like mathematics and science hold significant importance, excessive attention to EQ risks overshadowing the acquisition of other necessary skills, such as conflict resolution, teamwork, and self-awareness. Empirical studies state that children enrolled in social and emotional learning (SEL) programs are less volatile as they acquire skills for managing stress and establishing relations that are not detrimental. A lack of such indicated programs creates a void in a child’s development capable of leading to violent actions and other behavioral challenges.
In conclusion, the growing prevalence of violent crimes committed by young individuals can be ascribed to the fact that their parents and educational systems are deficient in providing adequate social and emotional nurture to them. Therefore, promoting emotional and social competencies can help reduce violence and promote better conflict resolution behavior.