Violence And Aggression In Childhood: What You Have Learned

Violence And Aggression In Childhoodas You Have Learned This Week From

Violence and aggression in childhood are complex phenomena influenced by multiple factors. According to Marion (2015), early childhood professionals must understand the multifaceted origins of aggressive behaviors to effectively address and mitigate them. The reading from Chapter 10 emphasizes that family environments are primary sources of early aggressive behavior; however, media exposure, peer interactions, community influences, cultural context, and biological predispositions also significantly contribute. This discussion explores current research on these causes, evidence of various influences, prevention strategies, advocacy approaches, and the importance of early intervention by professionals to reduce violence and aggression in children.

Research indicates that family patterns play a crucial role in the development of aggression in children. Marion (2015) notes that children often learn aggressive responses through modeling from caregivers and family members. Moreover, harsh or inconsistent discipline practices can reinforce aggression rather than curb it. Beyond the family, exposure to violent media has been shown to normalize aggressive behavior. Dr. Marilyn Gootman (2009) discusses the impact of violent media, revealing that children exposed to violent TV shows and video games tend to demonstrate increased aggression over time. Notably, the American Psychological Association (2013) reports that repeated exposure to media violence may desensitize children, reducing empathy and increasing aggressive tendencies.

Peer influence is another critical factor. Michel Boivin and Catherine Bissonnette (2014) highlight that children involved in teasing, bullying, or peer conflicts are more likely to exhibit aggressive behaviors. The social context of peer interactions can either exacerbate or reduce aggression depending on the environment and the adult guidance provided. Additionally, societal influences such as cultural norms and community violence also shape children’s attitudes towards aggression. The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) (2012) underscores that children growing up in neighborhoods with high violence levels may internalize aggression as a normative response to conflict, which complicates prevention efforts.

Biological factors also contribute to aggression. Genetic predispositions and neurobiological differences, particularly in brain structures associated with impulse control, can make some children more prone to aggressive responses. Twin studies and neuroimaging research indicate that biological vulnerabilities, when combined with environmental stressors, heighten the likelihood of aggressive behavior (Kaiser & Sklar Rasminsky, 2018). Understanding these biological components helps professionals tailor intervention strategies that encompass both environmental modification and, where appropriate, biological considerations.

Prevention strategies are vital in addressing early aggression. Marion (2015) advocates for positive guidance techniques, such as consistent routines, emotion coaching, and conflict resolution skills, to reduce challenging behaviors. Programs like social-emotional learning curricula aim to teach children empathy, self-regulation, and problem-solving, which are effective in mitigating aggression (Gootman & Weissberg, 2010). Another approach involves reducing exposure to violent media and promoting non-violent conflict management through parent and educator education. Evidence suggests that early intervention combined with environmental modifications can significantly curtail the development of aggressive tendencies.

Advocacy plays a central role in protecting children from influences that foster aggression. Early childhood professionals can serve as advocates by promoting policies limiting media violence exposure, implementing anti-bullying programs in schools, and supporting family education initiatives. For example, professionals can collaborate with community organizations to increase access to mental health resources and promote safe neighborhood environments. Furthermore, advocacy efforts can include training parents and caregivers about effective behavior management and the importance of positive role modeling. As Dr. Marilyn Gootman emphasizes, caring adults can make a substantial difference by providing consistent, nurturing relationships and promoting non-violent problem-solving skills.

In conclusion, understanding the diverse influences on childhood aggression is essential for early childhood professionals. Effective prevention involves addressing familial, media, peer, societal, and biological factors through comprehensive strategies that include education, positive guidance, and community advocacy. By acting as advocates and implementing evidence-based practices, early childhood professionals can create safer, nurturing environments that discourage aggression and foster healthy social-emotional development.

References

• American Psychological Association. (2013). Violence in the media—Psychologists study media violence for harmful effects. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/research/action/violence
• Gootman, M., & Weissberg, R. P. (2010). Social and emotional learning: A framework for promoting mental health in schools. Journal of School Psychology, 48(2), 87-105.
• Kaiser, B., & Sklar Rasminsky, J. (2018). Challenging behavior in young children. Pearson Education.
• Marion, M. (2015). Guidance of young children (9th ed.). Pearson.
• National Association for the Education of Young Children. (2012). Position statement: Violence in the lives of children. Retrieved from https://www.naeyc.org
• Gootman, M. (2009). You can make a difference [Video file]. Laureate Education.
• Boivin, M., & Bissonnette, C. (2014). Starting out early: What parents need to know about peer relationships. Young Children, 69(4), 10-16.
• United States. (2014). Managing problem behavior at home. Child Mind Institute.
• Heffner, C. (2003). The psychological effects of violent media on children. Developmental Review, 23(3), 253-269.
• Erwin, N., & Morton, N. (2015). Exposure to media violence and young children with and without disabilities: Powerful opportunities for family-professional partnerships. Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics, 36(4), 285-291.