A comprehensive solution to violence reduction

An open letter to PM Andrew Holness – a critical ingredient for violence reduction in Jamaica

THE EDITOR, Madam:

LET ME use this opportunity to commend you for your proposal to incorporate conflict management in schools’ curricula to reduce violence in the society. I am, however, recommending a more comprehensive solution for schools and parents. All people, including children, require 21st-century skills to effectively deal with the demands and challenges that the 21st century brings. Twenty-first-century skills are divided into three main categories: learning skills (communication, collaborations, critical and creative thinking); life skills (leadership, self-awareness, self-regulation, relationship building, social awareness and decision-making); and literacy skills (information, media and technological ).

Life skills refer to the social and emotional competencies that help adults and children to acquire and apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes they need to develop positive identities, manage emotions, achieve personal and collective goals. They allow us to feel, and show empathy for self and others, establish, and maintain supportive relationships and make responsible and caring decisions. Conflict management is one of the areas covered under social competence.

Traditionally, schools focus on helping students to achieve academic or intellectual outcomes. However, the holistic development of the child must be prioritised. Social and emotional learning (SEL) ensures that the social and emotional development needs of children are not left by the wayside. In fact, one of the recommendations coming out of Dr Orlando Patterson’s education transformation report, is the critical need for social and emotional learning to be implemented in schools. We cannot and will not see any significant outcomes for STEM and STEAM if the SEL needs of students are not addressed.

For us to see a change in the behaviours of students and adults in Jamaica, social and emotional learning competencies must begin with parenting education from the child is in the womb. The health of the parents, including mental and emotional health, will impact the health of the baby. Early-childhood institutions must be prioritised for this national campaign. The intervention must be comprehensive – a tiered approach should be used to ensure that ‘no stone is left unturned’. Psychologists postulate that a child’s self-image is formed between the ages of 0-7 years old. Once the self-image is formed, positive or negative, we will see manifestations of a holistic child or a struggling child.

SUBCONSCIOUS PROGRAMMING

One of the key reasons behaviour change is so difficult for people in general is because of subconscious programming/training of the mind. The subconscious mind is our habit mind. Once programmed, it operates automatically, making it very difficult to change. However, with determination, repetition, strong will and persistence, the subconscious mind can be retrained to behave in more desirable ways (paradigm shift/transformation). This is why it is critical that what is taught at schools is reinforced by the other agents of socialisation, especially in the home. If this nation is serious about reducing violence, it is possible.

Social and emotional learning will also play a significant role in helping to reduce the development of mental health issues among children and adults. This need is more critical than ever, as recent research by the Northern Caribbean University revealed that 100 per cent of females 18 years and older struggle with some form of depression!

By embracing social and emotional learning programmes, we will take a significant step towards building a peaceful, competent, and harmonious Jamaica.

ANISA WILSON-SMITH

Life Skills Education – CEO Jamaica Professional Youth Workers Association (JPYWA) – Regional Chair anisawlsn@yahoo.com