The aggressive child : early intervention in primary schools

Abstract

Aggression is sometimes regarded as an innate impulse, vital for our survival. Yet, behaviourists insist that children adopt over-aggressive attitudes in their behaviour as a result of their experiences. It becomes a learned response and a way of coping with their daily problems. Hence, as is universally accepted, the earliest intervention is done to help children deal with their aggression, the bigger are the chances of refraining from graver problems like delinquency and criminality in the future. The earliest intervention is, undeniably, prevention! Primary Schools are, undoubtedly, the most adequate environment, where prevention, detection and intervention are facilitated, keeping in mind the malleable age of the children attending such schools. Unfortunately, because of the lack of resources, crisis intervention is relatively the rule rather than the exception. Nevertheless, a survey carried out in numerous schools confirmed the prevalence of aggression, primarily bullying, among children,. Hence, it has become obvious that our education systems and support services need to shift to a more preventive-oriented approach. This should involve teachers, pupils and all the community, especially parents, so that every individual will work towards a safer society and a better future for our children!