Each
day, we hear about many acts of violence in our society. The tragic incident
earlier this week in Washington, DC so close to home made me wonder about what causes
individuals to become violent. While there may be a variety of possible causes,
if had the opportunity to conduct a research study, I would like to learn about
the relationship between exposure to specific stressful experiences such as
abuse and witnessing violence and crime during childhood and the potential of displaying
violent behavior as adults. Furthermore, I would like to research the role of
family, school and community supports in helping reduce the impact of stress
exposure in childhood. Unfortunately, children today experience high levels of
stress due to many reasons; family situations such as divorce, abuse, neglect,
being in foster care, bullying or teasing at school, exposure to violence and
crime to name just a few. The level of stress that many children are exposed
to, are much higher than they can cope with.
In my view, conducting a study on this topic
would be extremely beneficial. By learning about how childhood stressors impact
individuals in adulthood, we would know more about how we can better support
children to cope with stressors and reduce the impact of the stressors so that
despite experiencing a stressful childhood they can lead a positive life. This information will be especially useful in
developing school programs and community programs aimed at supporting children
at risk. With more children receiving the support they need, the probability of
individuals becoming violent and violence in our society maybe reduced. In
addition, the information can be used to advocate for more programs supporting
children and families and making policymakers more aware of the need to invest
more in children, families and communities.
Keshika,
ReplyDeleteWhen I was working on my undergraduate degree many years ago I wrote a research paper on domestic violence and found that boys who witnessed domestic violence as a child was 70% more likely to commit the crime later in their life; and girls who witness the act of domestic violence were also more likely to marry (or enter into a relationship with) a man who would be violent. I think your research project would be very beneficial to children and families.
Keshika,
ReplyDeleteChildhood stressors are serious. My son went through that because of my divorce and I believe it caused his stomach problems today. I also had stressors as a child because I was so scary and anything scared me. Still today I am nervous and I worry alot about things I cannot control. I believe children see their parents going through and it affect them as well. I learned to try not to let my son see my stressing, but sometimes we just can't hide hurt or pain. Programs to offer support would be great and probably provide help sooner rather than later. Therefore, unnecessary health problems may be avoided. Thanks for sharing.
Pam