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How to Prevent Violent Criminal Behavior in the Next Generation

NCJ Number
163898
Author(s)
J Riak
Date Published
1995
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This booklet identifies what causes violent behavior and suggests a strategy for preventing the development of such behavior in children and youth.
Abstract
Mistreatment of children by parents and other primary caretakers beginning in infancy is what causes the emergence of violent behavior. In much the same way that it interferes with the bonding process between child and parent, it stunts the child's ability to become socially integrated with the larger law-abiding community. On the other hand, the child who is reared in an attentive, supportive, nonviolent family will not engage in criminal violence. This booklet proposes a three-step solution to address bad parenting. First, States should rescind legislation regarding children's status that is based on the mythical distinction between spanking and battery. Every State in the United States has such laws. Further, youth should be educated about the importance and nature of good parenting. Educators must assume the responsibility for preparing youth for their most important role in life: parenthood. Further, all new parents should receive sound advice about nurturing, nonviolent parenting. Families deemed high-risk should be enrolled in programs of ongoing counseling and home monitoring. Where needed, skilled counselors should help convince mothers and fathers, grandparents, and other caretakers that the traditional examples they have been shown and the advice they have been given about disciplining children are bad examples and bad advice. 5 references, a 14-item list of recommended readings, and 8 media accounts to support the argument for nurturing, nonviolent child rearing