Whilst it may not come as a surprise to learn that British society casts negative views about the way children behave, the level of disrespect and animosity doesn’t bode well for the future. To liken children as ‘feral animals’ may well be an accurate description for many, but I can’t help thinking whether such criticisms results in a stronger us vs them mentality.
Almost half of Britons think children are violent and starting to behave like animals, a Barnardo’s survey suggests.
The children’s charity says the research suggests society holds a negative view towards children despite the majority being well behaved.
Of the more than 2,000 people questioned by ICM Research, 44% said young people were becoming feral.
Barnado’s chief executive Anne Marie Carrie said it was “depressing” so many were ready to give up on children.
The survey revealed that:
- 49% agreed children are beginning to behave like animals
- Almost 47% thought youngsters were angry, violent and abusive
- One in four said those who behaved badly were beyond help by the age of 10
- Whilst 36% thought children who get into trouble need help, 38% disagreed
Writing off our young is not a good move. We just can’t stand by and blindly judge. We must do what we can to ensure that the next generation of adults feel empowered to make a positive contribution to society.
However uneasy people are feeling about the state of children in today’s world, it is up to us to straighten things out. As it is, I am unhappy by the way my generation virtually ignores the contributions and sacrifices made by our elders. I hate to think how badly the younger generations will treat us.
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