A recent report from the Josephson Institute provides these results: Among boys (across race) 42 % of high school age and 32% of middle age young men believe it is okay to hit or threaten a person who makes them angry.
In your opinion, where or how is this behavior learned?
I would say this behavior is learned at home in the developing years. It is proven that 94 percent of children in the US have been spanked at least once by the age of 2. When parents show anger towards a child, a lot of times they are spanked. This attitude could be carried on later in life, when someone makes a teenage boy angry, they could use the same reaction thinking it's okay. I believe as they grow older they understand the meaning, and slowly but not all, stop.
The consequences are negative, when an adult hits or threatens another person it can be considered abuse or battery.
I believe this behavior begins in the home. I firmly believe in classical conditioning. Monkey see, monkey do (metaphorically speaking). Violence is everywhere; the news, cable tv, even in sports. I will also agree with Ashley...spanking has taught my child (more than anything) that force is exhibited in times of seriousness. He then turns around to smack me...monkey see, monkey do!
Consequences range from timeout to life in prision. It is the responsibility of me (the parent) to recognize the behavior and anger and channel it through different avenues. It is normal to get angry and want to act on it...it is not normal to take it out on others. The responsible party must take charge and take care of the problem.
Lauren M I think that this behavior comes from the entertainment industry. Fighting and killing have become so common that it doesn't even phase it's audience anymore. Most of the time it is men taking part in the violence and these men are role models for young boys. The possible consequences are numerous and have already shown themselves. School shootings, domestic abuse and rape and robbery are much more present in society today than they were before the entertainment industry was so powerful.
It is never ok to hit people that makes you angry. It all starts at home and in the neighborhoods that kids grow up in. If they see somebody else do it then they grow up thinking it is ok to do it. Everybody can't always get what they want and people are going to talk about you no matter what thats life. If somebody hit someone else because they are angry then that person is going to be angry and hit him back and then thats going to make evrybody lose control. Then there will be school shootings if they fill like they have to take drastic measures.
Yes i agree that everything that kids see they are going to do because they want to be like them or they is already in a situation like them and understands where they are coming from.
Its not okay to hit people or threaten them when you are angry or for fun. Unfortunately this is done in our society everywhere you turn. Dad threatens mom, mom threatens dad and the cycle continues in the kids behavior. The media all around doesn't help the situation. Everyone from local media to big film producers are getting rich off of bullying movies and voilence. Consquences again range from time out, holding cans above your head, holding one leg up for an alloted amount of time, suspension from school, and jail time. Parents, teachers, neighbors and children have got to step up take responsibilty and stop allowing the media to decide how we raise our children and run our homes.
It is very sad the way the Entertainment Industry has been allowed to invade our homes and change so much about our society, that its just plain embarrasing sometimes. I truly feel that more parents should get involved in media ratings, commercial broadcasting and movie releases. Let me add not ANY parent either. Parents who have Morals,Compassion for others, and a heart to want to make a difference for the future.
I am a firm believer that the way society idolizes violencein video games, movies, tv, and even the news media is responsible for how aggressive and unaccountable that children are becoming these days. I do not believe with those that say spanking leads to violence. To quote Sinbad, "Spanking doesnt teach violence, it teaches children to sit down and behave." I am not a proponent of cruelty to children in how a parent disciplines his child. I am a proponent that a parent should discipline a child when they do wrong. My parents spanked me when I did wrong and it taught me not to do that wrong deed again. As a parent, I control what my children watch and play. I also talk to them about how wrong it is to be violent...that there is always a way to deal with a situation without resorting to violence. It is sad when you witness a child/adult go outside thier boundaries and resort to violence. Everyone needs to learn more self control.
This is interesting. Some people blame it on the parents and others the media and entertainment industry but truly it is both. A child's exposure to violence on television or at school can can influence their behavior but it can also have no effect whatsoever. It is up to the parents to guide the experiences of their children and not let peers and the television do it for them. You can't change what's on television, showing in the movie theatres or playing on the radio, but you can influence how it affects your child. This report is really a reflection of a lack of guidance and positive influence than it is how the entertainment industry is corrupting our children.
I believe this behavior is learned by what these boys watch from their television and from what they see at their homes. Sometimes the child's father can be violent toward the mother, and the child might think that's the right way to handle a situation if one makes them angry. I believe its all about self control.
I absolutely agree with you Adam. I also believe the media plays a part and that spanking is not a part of the cause. Parent involvement is key. Children want limits and it is sad when they aren't provided and then blamed for the behavior they came up with as an alternative.
You're absolutely right, it's both the parents and the media is at blame. It's up to the parents to let the child know at a young age how to respond to certain situations.
I believe this behavior is learned more from the shows and movies they watch than learned from home situations. Violence is often glorified and promoted in various shows. I'm sure the change in testosterone doesn't help with the situation either.
If these males continue on with their violent ways they will no doubt end up in prison or dead.
I completely agree. There are so many shows that even glorify the violence. One show being MTV's "Bully Beatdown" where they confront the bully and the bully agrees to go into the ring and fight an actual qualified fighter. Even though at the end of the show the bully always sees the error in his way, the show is still pretty much advertising and promoting violence.
Very good points made in the previous comments. I do believe parents are the ultimate influence when the children are young. Parents and society expect boys to be tougher than girls, for the most part. Part of being tough means being physical to some people. Consequences can be severe, but a lot of the time bullying, or just being a "tough guy" gets ignored.
In response to April B. 28: So true, guidance is the key.
Taunya P.29 I believe that this behavior was learned from home from parents, the environment or peer groups. I think certain behaviors are reinforced by television, internet, videos and movies. I also believe that even though negative things are seen that the parents play a major role in teaching their children right from wrong. For example, just because a person may live in an environment where crime is prevalent does not mean they have to be involved in crime. Children should be taught by example. The consequences of this behavior is that it can be carried into adult life and the boys may possibly be abusers. Hopefully, the boys can understand that just because a person makes you angry that violence is never the answer.
Jamie R. 62 In my opinion this behavior can be learned at home at a young age depending on how the child is raised and what their home environment is like. I also think that watching peers react in anger or violence when someone makes them mad can be just as influential, if not more. People are known (especially teenagers) to act differently than they normally do in order to fit in. Other factors that could make middle school and high school boys react this way is the lack of thinking about the consequences to their actions and how they are affecting the people around them and hormones. I believe if the necessary actions are not taken to teach them that reacting to a negative situation with a negative response is not acceptable, then they could continue acting this way throughout life and possibly pass the same beliefs to their children.
Taunya P. 29 In Response to Sheletta J I totally agree with your response that the media plays a part in behavior. In my opinion, it is a very small part. It is the parents responsibility to monitor and guide their children.
Aspyn P.37 I believe it is more likely for young men to hit when they are angry because when little boys play they are more likely to fight and horseplay when they want their way. These habits may follow them when they get older. When boys are also bullied and teased they are more likely to fight physically and girls are more likely to fight mentally or verbally. Testosterone plays a big part in why males are more likely to fight and why they want to be dominate. There are several consequences to fighting including law problems such as jail time. The biggest consequence this can lead to is death if some situation gets out of hand.
Aspyn P. 37 In response to Staci H. 28 I agree, parents have a big way in how their child acts. In society today, boys are also held to a higher standard where they should be tougher and more physically fit. This leads them to fight each other because they try to see who is more manly.
Children today are exposed to violence from various forms of media, thier peers and society in general. However, I think that the media plays a big role in the prevelance of this type of behavior, as it glamorizes and encourages it.
Violent themes are a common place in television, movies, music lyrics, toys and video games being promoted toward young boys. While a certain level of viloence has always been present in male play themes (cowboys and indians, cops and robbers, super hero villian, Bugs vs. Wile E Cayote, etc.), the driving theme behind the violence in those games was good versus bad. Unfortunately that is not always the case with the themes they are exposed to today. There is definitely a "violence for power and prestige" trend in a lot of what we find acceptable to allow our children to engage in.
What I find the most troubling about this, is that we are allowing violence to be peddled to young children, yet we have taken away a parents right to discipline their children as they see fit (ie: spanking, and other physical forms of punishment). When children see violent acts as a way to gain power and control over others, and the child has never had to experience this type of control themselves, they become desensitized and are more likey to be the source of pain to others.
The consequences of this type of agressive behavior today can be a lack of acceptance by society, jail time or other leagal issues. as well as having a negative impact on society. If this trend continues, it wil no doubt be passed on to future generations and change the social values and society as we know it today.
Physical punishment has been used by parents as a method of discipline for years. I myself was the recipient of many spankings, as were my brothers, friends, parents and grandparents. I also went to Catholic school where corporal punishment was used. I am not a violent person, I do not hit or threaten to get my way or to retaliate when someone angers me. Nor do any of the people I know who did experience physical punishment. I am not talking about child abuse, but just a simple straight forward spanking. I think that too many people use the two interchangabley. While I agree that a child who is abused will learn to react with violence, I feel that simple spanking does not.
I believe that violence happens when communication fails. I'm a girl and not the kind prone to violence but I do think it has a place: mainly out of self defense. Where our boys (and girls sometimes) get confused is when they consider violence as a means to an end. A way to gain respect, a means of insulting a girl or guy who rejected their advances etc. And while no teenager I know would say "this is my method of coping with insecurity and rejection", I believe that is how it's learned. It could be in an abusive home, among abusive friends, because of disability, or at the hands of addiction, but a person who regularly resorts to violence for problem solving is having a communication breakdown. The consequences are obviously dysfunctional relationships; bullies and the bullied both suffer from verbal or physical violence. A dysfunctional way of relating to others can be passed down for generations. In summary: the guy who punches back to protect himself? Justified. The guy who punches out his roommate for making him angry by say...leaving food out? Not so much.
Sheiletta, I absolutely agree that parents need to take a stand against the media. This is an area that I feel very stongly about. I have done a lot of research on the impact that this industry has on our children and society. From sexualizing young girls to creating violent young men, the media is sure to be the downfall of our social values and well-being. Stronger regulations and stricter fines for those that do not adhere is a topic that should be addressed. However, the easiest way to stand up to these industries is to protest with our wallets. If we choose to not buy into negative values, maybe industries would not continue to try to instill them.
The entertainment industry does play a role, for sure! I have major beef with what I refer to as "horror porn" - movies that serve no purpose other than to show images of horrific physical and psychological terror. Subject matter alone does not have the same effect on the brain as subject matter with images. My own husband, who has served years in Iraq can testify to the overpowering numbness that seeing too much violence creates. In fact, when he finally came home he routinely tried to see if he could get an element of shock from movies, youtube, video games etc. just to see if there was anything left that surprised him. That's obviously a symptom of PTSD, but still.....what if our violent boys are experiencing something similar? I will say this, there have been images in movies that took days for me to recover from.
As I grew up my father made it clear to me that violence would never be accepted. I tell my son the same thing. I am not sure however that society as a whole is teaching boys to be honorable anymore. I agree with all the posts that it is up to the parents to control what thier kids are watching. It is hard for kids not to look at the glorified way that the entertainment serves up violence.
I think this behaviour is due to two reasons. First of all, there is a lack of consistent, positive male influence in the lives of many boys today (i.e. fathers) The father figure serves to instill positive morals and as a role model, consistently demonstrating appropriate responses to situations, including when someone makes you angry. Therefore, the lack of that essential consistent, positive instruction leaves boys unequipped how to handle situations and therefore, they handle them in an un-coached, knee-jerk, male-inclined manner, which is to be aggressive. Secondly, I think the reason for the belief/the way the behaviour is learned is through watching others in society. It is amazing how intensely and immediately people get aggressive over almost everything today. When you observe others, especially adults in your life as a growing boy, respond aggressively with little or only imagined reason, it speaks loudly to the male mind that this is how things should be handled. Furthermore, not only do males see that in those close to them, but they see it everywhere they go.
Consequences: As a child, the behavior could be ignored, the other person could retaliate in kind, the school could involve parents, administrators, counselors, and the police, as well as give in-school or at home suspension. Permanent information could be attached to the child's records, which will impact future competitive opportunities the child may be pursuing. The child's reputation would also be impacted, and therefore, any required future references for whatever competitive pursuit may be impacted. Also, the child and/or the other person could be injured temporarily or permanently, mildly or in life-changing ways. There can be legal, both criminal and civil consequences as well. In sum, it is a very bad idea to hit or threaten anybody ever, as the consequences could range from nothing to far-reaching.
I agree that males are more likely to respond physically since that is how they behave from birth. They are just physical beings, such as when they wrestle as little boys, like you mentioned. Add testosterone into the mix, plus the intensely emotional experience of being bullied for instance, and you have a recipe for physical alteration. That is why it is so important that they learn the right way to respond from the very beginning, consistently throughout their growing up years.
I believe that several factors have a role in violent behavior. The media plays a large role in what children/teens think is "cool"-fighting, killing, etc. It all starts at home, with what the child's environment is like- fighting and substance abuse around little Johnny is going to have an effect, and I think too many adults are too selfish to realize what they are doing to their children.
1)food 2) television programming 3)drugs and alchohol.
The chemicals in the food causes an increase in aggression, added to that since the 50's violence is the new thing that says your a man on TV. From James Bond to Bruce Willis...and so on. Drugs and alchohlo are so easily obtained now and lots of foods include harmful drugs and the remedy that the world offers now is MORE DRUGS ie ritalin, bunch of crap. Just my opinion
What great thoughts and postings on this subject!The debates about Hollywood, videos, spankings, etc are all very good.... but I tend to get a somewhat different take on the research....it states that across all races, young boys feel it is ok (read:socially acceptable)to strike out at another human being because they are "angry" at that person. Since when did this become acceptable? We are fast becoming a society (at least in the US) where it is perfectly alright to let our emotions dictate our behavior (remember "if it feels good, do it"?) Have we no more self-control? Did you see those people outside of the Casey Anthony trial hitting each other? As adults, can't we agree to disagree without getting violent? Is this because we allow so much violence in our lives from the evening news to video games? I believe so. But, regardless of how much violence we become acclimated to, and where that violence comes from, the consequences are grave if society starts condoning it. We must teach our children (and some adults apparently) that there are more appropiate ways to express our emotions, especially anger.
1)food 2) television programming 3)drugs and alchohol.
The chemicals in the food causes an increase in aggression, added to that since the 50's violence is the new thing that says your a man on TV. From James Bond to Bruce Willis...and so on. Drugs and alchohlo are so easily obtained now and lots of foods include harmful drugs and the remedy that the world offers now is MORE DRUGS ie ritalin, bunch of crap. Just my opinion
Again the fact remains that if your mind is altered due to engineered food or drugs or programming from tv, radio, etc... this is a huge factor on what your mind feels is ok. All logic, reasoning, goes out the window. Where the head goes the body follows, tv tells you repeatedly to fight and to kill, all in the name of justice or I'm right or ajudication. music in your head saying repeatedly sex be a whore be violent, ie Sasha fierce, Lady GAGA, look at the names of groups and lyrics and this is what we listen to day in day out. Really from birth we are being programmed to be violent males especially. Adults on down to the children are being programmed. Being bad is popular now just look around at everything billboards to commercials etc....
I believe this behavior begins directly from home life.If the child has an abusive father/mother they are more likely to have anger issues from childhood to adulthood. Another effect would be video games rated from T to M. There is a lot violance and foul language, and if they are not monitored by parents anger issues could arise from these as well.
I agree wth Robin regarding the other issues that could make anger increase. There are so many chemicals in food( like chicken nuggets and even white bread) you really do not know if the food companies are putting in an ingrediant as an experiment. "Big brother"
Sarah C.28 I personally believe that this behavior is learned at home, by peers, and the media. By playing violent video games, they learn violent behavior and thus sometimes act it out in real life. In 2007, a 16 year old teen shot and killed his mother and injured his father after they took away his Halo 3 game. The media keeps introducing more and more violence into what we watch. More TV shows having fighting and if a kid watches it he is going to try to act it out. There should be stronger regulations on what kids watch and play.
Sarah C.28 in response to Anneliese R.29 I agree with your comment. Video games now a days are much more violent and advocating stealing cars and shooting people. If the kid is in a abusive home then most likely he or she is going to take it out on another kid at school.
In my opinion, I feel this type of behavior is learned by the environment the male is exposed to as a child. They may idolize an older sibling, father or other relative or friend and decide they want to be just like them when they grow up or they often feel that this type of behavior is normal. Some of the more common consequences of this behavior is jail or death. Some other possible consequences are drugs, gangs and loss of family relationships.
E. LynneRoss.28 In response to Autumn H....That is another very powerful way young people, even adults are exposed to violence. Most times it is glorified. If that's what they are exposed to on a regular basis with nothing to teach them different, the chances of them not repeating this type of behavior is very slim.....Good point!
Dawn W. 28 I think it could be learned if it is seen in the home. Also it could be learned from peers,movies, video games,exposure to drugs and alcohol,or that boys are taught not to show their emotions so they have all this built up frustration and do not know how to deal with it so they become violent. The possible outcome of being violent is death, or jail.
Kathryn C. 28 Violence in young men can be blamed on parents, school, movies, gangs, TV and many other influences. I am sure they each take part in today's violence. However if this is a recent study I think we should also consider the effect of our country being at war. My husband did 3 tours over seas and I am very proud of his service. When you live in a country that is at war and the war is glorified I wonder if this effects young men? Is it easier to solve personal problems with a fight when most of your friends and family agree with that strategy to solve our countries issues?
Carrie H. 28 Parents, movies, video games, friends, all have influence on how a boy is supposed to act and what is acceptable for boys isn't so acceptable for girls. But I think boys are just born with a more physical nature. They bond by wrestling and being rough and tumble. When they are little it is as cute as when puppies do the same thing. Then they grow older and they are truning into more of a "man" and have to be guided in appropriate ways to deal with their nature. Not all tendencies towards hitting have to turn out with crime and jail. In my home martial arts has brought an outlet and discipline to my teenage son. He has also talked about going into the police force or military. We can't all be passive. We should be teaching our young men to stand up strong when needed but that its also good to back down and let things go when its not needed.
It's the old "nature vs. nurture" theory (are we violent because we are programmed or do we become violent due to our environment?)...As humans we are genetically programmed to fight when we feel threatened, forage for food, etc. As the only species on the planet that can reason, some societies have tried to evolve into pacificism...I say some because the society that encompasses this sociology class is not the only society on earth. There are tribes in the Amazon, for example, that still fight other tribes, hunt for food, etc. Are they violent? If they didn't fight back, they would be anilated. The question is..Do they beat up each other or their wives? Probably not. Does violence beget violence? There are people who are violent whose homelife would not be descibed as violent (Ted Bundy comes to mind). My son grew up playing a comuter game with his dad...I think it was called "Doom"..that I thought was awful...really violent...but both he and his dad are not in the least bit violent. So, what does all this mean? I don't know...I just think as a parent we should quit giving our children so much processed food ( I strongly agree with all comments about what we eat), control their televison, video games, and get back to playing outside more. Yes, the little boys (and some of us girls) will play war, but it is all a healthy part of what we humans are!....
I believe this behavior is learned at home and throughout their day to day environment. Everywhere you look these days you see violence whether it be on the street, tv, video games, or movies. It is the responsibilty of the parent(s) to reinforce that this is not an acceptable behavior.
I believe this behavior is learned at home and throughout their day to day environment. Everywhere you look these days you see violence whether it be on the street, tv, video games, or movies. It is the responsibilty of the parent(s) to reinforce that this is not an acceptable behavior.
You make some great points. People tend to forget or don't care that their actions may effect someone else negatively. It is all about instant gratification. I wonder if the lack of face to face communication these days has any impact on this.
I could go along with the most popular answers by blaming this behavior on TV, video games, or your environment, but I won't. I believe it is just a lack of parenting. My father spanked me, I played video games, and I watched violent shows & cartoons on TV. I am not, nor is my brother, a person who believes it is okay to hit or threaten others. I think it is just human nature to be react badly when something makes you angry. For this reason, it is the parents responsibility to train their child on how to react in real life situations.
There are many possible consequences to this type of behavior. These could include suspension from school, loss of job, jail time, getting hurt, or even being killed.
I have to disagree with your source for learning this behavior. Children are born selfish and a violent environment may nuture that behavior but that is not where it is learned. Violent behavior is just a natural occurance that good child training can diminish. A natural reaction to a baby not wanting the bowl of food you give them is for them to throw it. It is your job to put an end to the violent reactions that we are born with as they occur in your child's life.
Racquel C.29 I must say that it's not okay to hurt anyone regardless of any situation. I feel that parents do their best with teaching their kids right from wrong and unfortually some kids end up doing more wrong that right. This behavior could be learned at home or even in certain environments they are in. I feel that when parents spend time with their kids and keep them active with sports, etc. they usually have a fair life and stay out of trouble. Also, if parents continue to work with their kids and keep them in a positive environment they can beat the odds and stay out of trouble or not treaten another persons life.
This is one of those issues that is hard to pinpoint to a single cause. Many people list the discipline techniques used at home as a primary cause.
I tend to disagree with this point of view mainly due to the fact that discipline techniques have acctually grown milder over the years. I remember hearing my parents talking about being taken out behind the wood pile when they were growing up. Yet now days even a simple spanking by hand is often frowned on.
One contributing factor may be this lack of displine in todays youth. That said however a child should not be disciplined out of anger. It must be done while the adult is not displaying any anger and with an explanation as to what was done wrong.
I also tend to agree with the point put across by many of the people here who stated that they feel the violence depicted on television and in games plays a large part in the increase in violence. However this is a strong indicator of parenting (or lack thereof. I see it all to often in my line of work where the parents dont spend any time with thier kids and the children are forced to occupy their selves with the violent video games and television shows. Or even worse hanging around with the wrong kids who their parents never bother checking on. If parents were to step up and make an effort to spend more time with their kids and be more involved then I feel things would be much different.
I understand that this may be difficult for some parents to fit into their schedules however it can be done in almost all but the most extreme schedules.
Maryann Hein 27 I believe, that like many people here noted, that behavior is predominantly learned. Whether from parents, siblings, peers, or the media. Children typically behave in a manner consistent with what they have witnessed. Video games and television play a large role in a child's life today, and many of the shows, even cartoons, are violent and also depict no consequences for the violence. Parents need to stay involved in their child's life and provide an appropriate role model. The consequences of this behavior can be far reaching. The child not only gets into trouble for his violent actions, but is also avoided by his peers. This may make him even more unstable as he now has no one else to model after. Communication can also breakdown with violence and this creates a negative feedback cycle that only perpetuates the violence in the child.
Kevin M. 29 I Believe the 42% of high school males stem from the 37% of the males representing as their role models. High school male usuall act as thie role models act and if the same 37% of males are raising the children then thier children are going to act as they do.
In responce to Carrie H.28 Video games, and movies, arent to blame if children learned the the diffrence between right and wrong, and are able to distinguish real life from a game or movie.
Carrie H. 28 in response to Melissa H. 28 I agree with you that sources such as video games and media only affect our kids to the extent that we allow them too. If you are teaching your kid how to cope in real life situations then they know right from wrong and will most likely choose to walk away or do the right thing. And sometimes someone may push your buttons until you make a bad choice. It's easy to react quickly without thinking and hit or threaten. You pay the consequences and that's how you figure out not to do it next time. If anything it is a lack of discipline and consequences that lead to kids giving into these temptations.
So true Robin. Medicating children with chemicals that affect brain function is ridiculous! If we medicate children for their behavior, rather than teach them self-control and discipline, they will lack the emotional skills needed to self-regulate their emotions and the resulting behavior.
Aruna Vegesina 28 I think this type of thinking has been passed down from old times. In a society, men had the responsibility of taking care of the family. This included showing violent behavior when in threat of danger. The negative aspect of this notion is men or boys showing violent behavior toward one's own ie other human beings. The consequences of violent behavior are more violence. It becomes a vicious cycle.
I agree with Melissa that parents have the responsibility of teaching their kids about self-control. The teaching needs to start early in life, especially in the forming years. This evil in society has end and everyone of us has a part to play.
I understand your concerns with spanking and how the child can learn violdent behavior from that; however, I do think that if a parent is going to spank a child it be for an honest reason and it's explained to the child why they were punished and why it's not okay to do that to others. We've gotten so politically correct that even the smallest little spanking has people freaked out and calling DFCS. I was (rarely) spanked growing up and I do not see anything wrong with it.
I believe that it can start from home, watching tv shows or even who they surround themselves with. most young children just follow what they see, they would think its kool to do it. the parent plays a big role on how children act,its up to the parent to show their child whats wrong and whats right
KIMBERLY CARR 28 I think this behavior is learned at home. Its can be seen on tv, within the home,from other family members,or even friends. This behavior starts early, so if children are exposed to this behavior then how would they know any different?
Consequences to this behavior varies. You can be locked up for battery or assualt. As a child, one could harm their record by putting this on it. One can retalliate and harm you( the one who originally started the fight). We must have and show self control.
KimberlyC28 in response to E. LynneR I agree with your response. This behavior is learned in the environment the child is exposed to. And consequences are sometimes jail or even death.
I agree with your response. I do think this behavior is learned at home. The fact is that people learn from others. (either family, TV, etc), if a child never saw people acting out of anger, I doubt any serious event would happen.
Diamond D. 29 I believe that a behavior like this comes from what kids see at home and also on tv. kids tend to repeat what they are use to seeing and seeing it frequently would make it seem more ok.
Jessica S. 28 I believe this behavior is something that is learned during formative years. When the child is much younger, they seem to observe more rather than act. The child is around said behavior so when they become around the same age as the person or people they observed they then act out what they witnessed for years.
Jessica S. 28 in response to Krystal H. 28 I totally agree with you with parents being responsible for teaching their children right from wrong. Children are inevitably going to witness unsavory behavior out in society or on videogames. Parents of these children are responsible for differentiating between right wrong for these children.
In your opinion, where or how is this behavior learned?
I would assume there are a few factors that lead to this behavior. First people learn by seeing what other people do so it's possible they picked it up either observing their parents or some other people around them. I wouldn't just solely put this at blame of the parents however. Boys learn from their friends who hit each other as well. They may have learned this while hanging out with their friends. One of their friend's may have an abusive father or mother and they in turn act that way around their friends, which makes them thinks think it is ok as well.
There is another possible way this was learned. Again by observing those around him he may have picked it up through one form of entertainment (tv, movies, or video games). There are too many possible reasons to just say there is only contributing factor. The mostly likely scenario is a combination of all of the things I have listed. Seeing people fighting at home, fighting with friends, and then seeing it on television must make people think that it is ok.
What are possible consequences?
I have heard that some students have been kicked out of the public school system because of their physical behavior. This would be the worst possible consequence. If the child doesn't have the right education background it will be hard for them to find work in their future. However, this can't always be 100% true; things may change as the child gets older.
It could lead to them to have the tendencies throughout their lifetime, which could in turn lead them to a life of crime with possible jail time.
It would also lead them to live a better life if they see how bad it really can get. They would feel empowered to help more kids their age, or even younger, to not live this sort of way. I wouldn't say every possible outcome would be negative, though there is more potential for it to be negative.
I like how you take the topic personal as it must hit close to home for you. I am not a parent so it's cool to see your perspective. I'm glad that you’re responsible enough to understand that it is the parents who are most potentially at fault with this sort of situation. It appears as if you take this kind of thing head on rather than taking a passive role. It's also good to know how my children, if I happen to have any, could react to punishment
Jorge W28 I believe the nature of humans is selfishness and maturity and character have to be taught, and exemplified. Two children who have never seen violence will by nature become selfish and when feelings of anger are aroused without any other way of communicating to resolve the matter, the immature reaction of man is violence. Of course violence can and is a learned behavior but even without this learned behavior children exemplify pure reactions unmasked by hidden motives that can be more easly discerned. You can spend years of teaching that which is right and a single day of rebellion can overide due to the nature of man. I also believe there is a strong difference between discipline and abuse of which I have been the student of both subjects.
Jorge W28 in response to Jessica S28 I agree that much of the behaviour is assimulated through the home however we can not rule out the corruptive nature within even a child when it come to getting what they want at the expense of everything else. Even my two year old throws a fit when she does not get her way although she had ever seen me fall a=on the floor and start kicking and screaming.
I believe that the views and opinions of the males interviewed reflect things they LEARNED. There are many societal influences that shape the way people handle situations. They may have seen it in the home or even in the community in which they live. They have most likely had violent responses either toward them or to those around them to think it's okay for them to do the same.
In my opinion, this behavior is learned by the parent. As a mother, I have learned that my son copies every thing i do or say and I could only imagine boys at that age would do the same. If they grew up only knowing that hitting and spanking was okay, they are going to practice it on other people. The consequences of their actions may land them in trouble at school or even worse, land them in jail.
In response to Andrea M. 28
I agree with you. I think if they had a violent upbringing then they will carry it with them for the rest of their lives.
I think that kids learn this behavior from many differnt things such as; home, tv, radio, internet, etc.. I do believe that it can be learned from the home if there is violence or abuse. The child can pick that up very easily and think it is ok to act in that manner. I also think that every child needs a good spanking when they are bad as long as its a controled situation. Todays media also shows so much violence that children are picking up on it.They are also learning things from there peers. If they get to out of had with violence either there going to get a good butt whoopen by someone bigger and stronger or they will end up going to jail.
I agree with you. The violence does not just come from the home. There are so many violent games and shows and they can pick it up from anything like that.
Dionne F.28 This behavior usually comes from experiences in the home , like abusive parents. Or if the child finds comfort in confiding with someone in the neighborhood, whom might have a criminal background but is still liked and accepted by everyone in the neighborhood. Unfortunately this child may see him as a role model and follow him down the wrong path.
The possible consequences of these kinds of behavior is jail or death for crimes committed.
Dionne F.28 In response to Gregori L.29 Your statement I think mentioned all the possible causes of violent behavior. I totally agree with everyone, the media, the friends, the games they all can take the innocence away from a growing child.Unfortunately if the child doesn't have positive reinforcement in the home, that's when they take there anger out in school or social gatherings.
This behavior is learned for the most part at home but that’s not it. It can also be learned for movies, TV, etc. There are possible consequences for these actions like jail time. No one wants to sit in jail for a fight that could have been solved with words.
This behavior is generally learned by example, whether it is on t.v. or by a parent or peer. I believe that people ought to be taught to stick up for themselves and not avoid a fight if they can't but to never start one. There are no consequences for self defense.
This behavior is generally learned by example, whether it is on t.v. or by a parent or peer. I believe that people ought to be taught to stick up for themselves and not avoid a fight if they can't but to never start one. There are no consequences for self defense.
I agree that the larger percent on influence is going to come from the parent, especially at an early age when the parent controls the content that the child is exposed to.
I think that boys and young men learn violent behavior from their environment, starting in the home. I have seen boys as young as two or three years old that felt it was acceptable behavior to hit, shove, bite, choke, or throw things at others when they were upset. They see the behaviors of others at home, out in public, on television, and in other media outlets and imitate them. I think in two-parent homes, many of the habits boys pick up come from their fathers, and if there is no father or father-figure present boys find influences outside of the home, both positive and negative. As a teacher, I have occasionally witnessed fathers encourage violent behavior in young boys or brush off acts of violence, fighting, or roughhousing as being manly, tough, and “just boys being boys.” I have also witnessed how domestic disputes, movies, and video games have influenced violence in young boys in situations where the parents were unaware the children were watching. In the case of high school and middle aged young men, I feel their violent actions are more a misdirected display of rebellion, anger, frustration, pressure from society and influence by peers. By the time a young man is in high school, he should know right from wrong, and in regardless of his circumstance, the decision to hit or threaten someone is a conscientious choice. Some of the possible consequences of the young men’s learned violent actions is gradual progression to more violent behaviors, juvenile delinquency, imprisonment, loss of opportunities (employment, family, or romantic relationships), a pattern of violence being repeated in subsequent generations, inability to control or manage anger response, and being killed or injured by engaging in a confrontation on the losing end.
Omowumi A.28 I believe that kids learn most of their behaviors at home either directly or indirectly. An adage said "Charity begins at home." Most kids are left alone at home watch violent movies where they learn how to hit and kill someone, also some parent when their children comes home to report their classmate, they encourage their children to always fight back instead of telling them to report the issue to their teacher. Consequences when someone hit others can make that person to kill someone and this might lead to lifetime imprisonment.
I disagree that selfishness, hidden motives, and corrupted behavior is human nature, and that even without learned behavior it will manifest itself with immature reactions. The emotion of being angry is natural, however, boys and girls learn how to channel those emotions, and their primary teachers are their parents. In this case, high school and middle aged young men can decide to hit or threaten others, but they are not pre-programmed to do so. Obviously, they have either ignored reason and acted purely on emtion,are still too immature to understand the repercussions of their actions (which is highly unlike at their age), or never learned conflict mediation and resolution. An angry person can have any number of reactions aside from hitting and threatening others. If they decide to use violence, it reflects learned behavior more than natural inclination towards selfish behavior.
Omowumi A.28 In response to Melissa H. 28. I totally disagree with Melissa when she said it is human nature to react badly when something makes you angry. You don't react to everything that makes you angry. As a matter of fact when you are angry you are not suppose to react because you might end up getting all the blames. So i think we need to learn on how to discipline ourselves especially the parents because our children are watching us. I also advise that we should always be a good examples to others.
Omowumi A.28 In response to Anneliese R.29 I agree with Anneliese when she said if a child has an abusive father or mother that the child or children are more likely to have anger issue from childhood to adulthood. It is true because we are a product of our environment and society. The first part of the society is the family where we come from or where we are being raised or brought up. If a child leave with a violent person definitely the child will grow up to be a violent person.
I believe that physical aggression and the acceptance of acting on it is derived from popular culture, where it influences boys who grow up to be fathers, who in turn influence their sons. Popular culture holds (and has for as long as anyone can remember) boys and men to a certain expectation of machismo, and part of 'being a man' is projecting a certain physical authority onto other men. I also believe that popular culture and society in general have held on to this image of manliness because it's based (at least in part) on primal urges to establish a hierarchy within a social group, in which the dominant male is most likely to attract more women. I don't really foresee men as ever truly becoming less physically aggressive, just the aggression becoming more subdued for fear or the legal consequences.
I agree, to some extent, that positive and negative reinforcement at home by the parents gives a child a much better chance at being nonviolent and a more productive member of society as an adult. In practice, however, this approach is only going to be so useful. If a child is being bullied at school, what do you say to them? Do you tell them to just take it? Do you advise them to 'tell on them'? In reality, when confronted with such a situation, as a boy who has been told by movies and television and his peers that 'real men don't take crap', what do you think he's going to do? He's either going to get beaten up and ostracised for being a sissy, or he's going to fight back, usually through physical means. The problem here lies in the group, not the individual, and as long as more people believe violence is okay than don't, there will be pressure on the good kids to fight back.
I believe that the behavior that is experienced between these boys is not from the home but from school. Boys are taught to be agressive or be picked on at school. so I think this is taught at school because if they aren't this way then they will be bullied. For instance I have two boys one is bullied because he won't fight at school and the other is not bullied because if other children mess with him he defends him self. He is not aggressive on his own he has to be pushed to that point.
Danielleg 29 In response to Omowumi A.28 I disagree because I never taught my children violence in the home. They were taught at school. I complained to school and nothing was done. It takes children to go around committing suicide for bullying to be stopped. Sometimes it kids bullying in response to home life but it is not always learned at home.
Danielleg 29 in response to Ashley G. 95 My children were spanked from age two and they are well behaved at school. They mind there manners and I don't have constant calls from the school. The difference people confuse spanking with abusive beatings. My children understood when they were spanked it was because they did something wrong. Your theory is not always right those children how went and shot up those other children in school weren't spanked they were bullied. it's a difference. My children are older now they don't get spanked because they don't have to be they are well behaved and don't bully at school. Its when children stopped being spanked is when you had bully and more agression. Please don't mix up beatings with spankings. Spanking are when they get tapped on bottom with hand not beat with fist like they are grown ups.
Behavior is learned, whether it be from family members, peers or the media. The person needs to learn self control. There are many consequences that follow this type of aggression. The boy could decide to challenge anothor boy that he may think is inferior and wind up getting hurt himself. If the aggression contiunes in life it could definetly lead to incareration or possibly death.
In responce to April B. I agree with you totally. It is up to the parents to see negative behavior and to correct it before it gets out of hand. luckily for me, I am home during the day so I can monitor what they watch on television. Their dadand I are very consciousness about what we do and say around them. Now, as far as what they are exposed to at school, we have no control over, but hopefullly we are doing enough at home to combat any other negative behavior they might be exposed to.
This is not surprising to me. There are many changes that have taken place in this society over the last generations that might have contributed to these kind of views in our male population. One very important change is that today's kids do not have the respect for their parents that previous generation's kids had. The family structure has changed tremendously. The father is often not the only breadwinner and his authoritative status within the family unit has changed. Many mothers have careers and the partners work together to make family decisions. Even though these can be positive changes, there are also negative changes associated with it. Children do not see their mothers do as their fathers say, making them less inclined to do as their parents say. In addition, children have less boundaries, and parents, trying to fulfill modern society's many demands are often too tired to enforce them. Children have no important roles within the family anymore. They do not need to contribute labor to help their families survive. All these changes can lead to a lack of respect which is first exhibited in the home but then transfers to other members of society. In addition, "softer" parenting techniques that emphasize not hurting childrens' feelings, exposure to violent video games, afternoons spent alone when both parents work, the loss of a neighborhood structure where neighbors helped each other out, the high pressures today to succeed and live the American dream all can lead to deviant behaviors, as is represented in the views of the males that were sampled. I think society in general, the way we raise our children, the way the schools educate our children, and the pressures of modern life all contribute to behaviors in some members of society that are harmful to others.
To continue my comment, I believe that people who think it is ok to react in a violent manner to certain situations are a danger to other members of society. Consequences can be dire for people making threats or resorting to violence to resolve conflicts. They can even be more dire for the victims, who may get hurt or even killed in a violent encounter where self-control is lost.
Ashley, I do not believe that spanking has contributed to the mentioned behaviors. There are many cultures that resort to a lot more spanking than is done here in the US, but their children exhibit less violent tendencies than the children in this country. Also, previous generations of children in this country received more spankings, but I don't think as many of those children exhibited those violent tendencies and lack of respect for others.
I believe that this is in direct result of how our society has embraced violence. When I was growing up, so so long ago, the entertainment industries was cautious to portray a great deal of violence in its movies, and video games. We had games such as space invaders, pac-man, and missle command. It is true that there were violence in movies, but most of them had a R rating and parents were more strict in values and morals. Now, the industry has extremely violent game like Call of Duty, Grand Theft Auto, and countless others as well as having more risque tv programming like UFC, and yes even real world, and such shows that are teaching the next generation that it is not desensitizing our youth on violence, but also condoning promisquity (sp) and behavior that would have been considered immoral in the recent past. PG movies have even been loaded up with violnce and brief nudity, and I believe all these thing contribute to the thought processes of our younger generation; deviance bnot only in the males but also the females. But the entertainment industry is not the only blame for this outcome in my opinion, the home has a part to play as well. Parents aren't getting involved as much as they used to. I read in an earlier post that someone implied spanking a child had something to do with the problem. I DISAGREE. There is a line that some may fine hard to distinguish, but when I was growing up, my mother would whoop my @$$ if I got out of line, and while I dont think you should know a child out, or break any bones, I think that discipline helped me to think aboutmy actions before I acted. I am not talking about abuse, i am talking about disciple, and i feel for those that can't differentiate, they should just stick with time outs.
To comment on danielleg and Silke A.'s response. I totally agree with your reponses. In addition, I think another contributing factor spawns from some of our greatest achievements in technology. With the invent of the internet, violent content becomes more readily accessible. Do a simple search on-line and you will quickly understand what I mean. I don't think we should, nor do I think it even possible to do away with the internet, but i must admit that it does become another obstacle on tackling the problems of our topic.
I believe that media, music and parents have a lot to do with it. A lot of people have commented on in home violence, spanking. I believe that there is a big difference in spanking and violence. I agree with spanking a small child to apply consequences for bad behavior. But I do also agree that it can be taken overboard. Coming from a generation where getting a spanking was normal and practiced. I don't believe that it is the problem.
I think that violence in youth is from the music and media that they are exposed to. They have come to believe that acting this way is not only proactive but also socially exceptable. I can go on and on about what media and music are portraying as ok.
In closing, while in home violence can be a reason for teenage violence it doesn't explain the rise in percentage. I personally think that it can be better attributed to media, and music.
Ashley G. 95
ReplyDeleteI would say this behavior is learned at home in the developing years. It is proven that 94 percent of children in the US have been spanked at least once by the age of 2. When parents show anger towards a child, a lot of times they are spanked. This attitude could be carried on later in life, when someone makes a teenage boy angry, they could use the same reaction thinking it's okay. I believe as they grow older they understand the meaning, and slowly but not all, stop.
The consequences are negative, when an adult hits or threatens another person it can be considered abuse or battery.
Brandon W (28)
ReplyDeleteI believe this behavior begins in the home. I firmly believe in classical conditioning. Monkey see, monkey do (metaphorically speaking). Violence is everywhere; the news, cable tv, even in sports. I will also agree with Ashley...spanking has taught my child (more than anything) that force is exhibited in times of seriousness. He then turns around to smack me...monkey see, monkey do!
Consequences range from timeout to life in prision. It is the responsibility of me (the parent) to recognize the behavior and anger and channel it through different avenues. It is normal to get angry and want to act on it...it is not normal to take it out on others. The responsible party must take charge and take care of the problem.
Lauren M
ReplyDeleteI think that this behavior comes from the entertainment industry. Fighting and killing have become so common that it doesn't even phase it's audience anymore. Most of the time it is men taking part in the violence and these men are role models for young boys. The possible consequences are numerous and have already shown themselves. School shootings, domestic abuse and rape and robbery are much more present in society today than they were before the entertainment industry was so powerful.
Michelle B. 28
ReplyDeleteIt is never ok to hit people that makes you angry. It all starts at home and in the neighborhoods that kids grow up in. If they see somebody else do it then they grow up thinking it is ok to do it. Everybody can't always get what they want and people are going to talk about you no matter what thats life. If somebody hit someone else because they are angry then that person is going to be angry and hit him back and then thats going to make evrybody lose control. Then there will be school shootings if they fill like they have to take drastic measures.
Michelle B. 28 in response to Brandon W. 28
ReplyDeleteYes i agree that everything that kids see they are going to do because they want to be like them or they is already in a situation like them and understands where they are coming from.
Sheiletta J. 36
ReplyDeleteIts not okay to hit people or threaten them when you are angry or for fun. Unfortunately this is done in our society everywhere you turn. Dad threatens mom, mom threatens dad and the cycle continues in the kids behavior. The media all around doesn't help the situation. Everyone from local media to big film producers are getting rich off of bullying movies and voilence.
Consquences again range from time out, holding cans above your head, holding one leg up for an alloted amount of time, suspension from school, and jail time. Parents, teachers, neighbors and children have got to step up take responsibilty and stop allowing the media to decide how we raise our children and run our homes.
Sheiletta J. 36 in response to Laura M.
ReplyDeleteIt is very sad the way the Entertainment Industry has been allowed to invade our homes and change so much about our society, that its just plain embarrasing sometimes. I truly feel that more parents should get involved in media ratings, commercial broadcasting and movie releases. Let me add not ANY parent either. Parents who have Morals,Compassion for others, and a heart to want to make a difference for the future.
Adam Smith
ReplyDeleteI am a firm believer that the way society idolizes violencein video games, movies, tv, and even the news media is responsible for how aggressive and unaccountable that children are becoming these days.
I do not believe with those that say spanking leads to violence. To quote Sinbad, "Spanking doesnt teach violence, it teaches children to sit down and behave."
I am not a proponent of cruelty to children in how a parent disciplines his child. I am a proponent that a parent should discipline a child when they do wrong. My parents spanked me when I did wrong and it taught me not to do that wrong deed again.
As a parent, I control what my children watch and play. I also talk to them about how wrong it is to be violent...that there is always a way to deal with a situation without resorting to violence.
It is sad when you witness a child/adult go outside thier boundaries and resort to violence. Everyone needs to learn more self control.
April B. 28
ReplyDeleteThis is interesting. Some people blame it on the parents and others the media and entertainment industry but truly it is both. A child's exposure to violence on television or at school can can influence their behavior but it can also have no effect whatsoever. It is up to the parents to guide the experiences of their children and not let peers and the television do it for them. You can't change what's on television, showing in the movie theatres or playing on the radio, but you can influence how it affects your child. This report is really a reflection of a lack of guidance and positive influence than it is how the entertainment industry is corrupting our children.
Jessica G 29
ReplyDeleteI believe this behavior is learned by what these boys watch from their television and from what they see at their homes. Sometimes the child's father can be violent toward the mother, and the child might think that's the right way to handle a situation if one makes them angry. I believe its all about self control.
April B. 28 In response to Adam Smith
ReplyDeleteI absolutely agree with you Adam. I also believe the media plays a part and that spanking is not a part of the cause. Parent involvement is key. Children want limits and it is sad when they aren't provided and then blamed for the behavior they came up with as an alternative.
Jessica G. 29 in response to April B. 28
ReplyDeleteYou're absolutely right, it's both the parents and the media is at blame. It's up to the parents to let the child know at a young age how to respond to certain situations.
I believe this behavior is learned more from the shows and movies they watch than learned from home situations. Violence is often glorified and promoted in various shows. I'm sure the change in testosterone doesn't help with the situation either.
ReplyDeleteIf these males continue on with their violent ways they will no doubt end up in prison or dead.
I completely agree. There are so many shows that even glorify the violence. One show being MTV's "Bully Beatdown" where they confront the bully and the bully agrees to go into the ring and fight an actual qualified fighter. Even though at the end of the show the bully always sees the error in his way, the show is still pretty much advertising and promoting violence.
ReplyDeleteStaci H. 28
ReplyDeleteVery good points made in the previous comments. I do believe parents are the ultimate influence when the children are young. Parents and society expect boys to be tougher than girls, for the most part. Part of being tough means being physical to some people. Consequences can be severe, but a lot of the time bullying, or just being a "tough guy" gets ignored.
In response to April B. 28:
So true, guidance is the key.
Taunya P.29
ReplyDeleteI believe that this behavior was learned from home from parents, the environment or peer groups. I think certain behaviors are reinforced by television, internet, videos and movies. I also believe that even though negative things are seen that the parents play a major role in teaching their children right from wrong. For example, just because a person may live in an environment where crime is prevalent does not mean they have to be involved in crime. Children should be taught by example. The consequences of this behavior is that it can be carried into adult life and the boys may possibly be abusers. Hopefully, the boys can understand that just because a person makes you angry that violence is never the answer.
Jamie R. 62
ReplyDeleteIn my opinion this behavior can be learned at home at a young age depending on how the child is raised and what their home environment is like. I also think that watching peers react in anger or violence when someone makes them mad can be just as influential, if not more. People are known (especially teenagers) to act differently than they normally do in order to fit in. Other factors that could make middle school and high school boys react this way is the lack of thinking about the consequences to their actions and how they are affecting the people around them and hormones. I believe if the necessary actions are not taken to teach them that reacting to a negative situation with a negative response is not acceptable, then they could continue acting this way throughout life and possibly pass the same beliefs to their children.
Taunya P. 29 In Response to Sheletta J
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with your response that the media plays a part in behavior. In my opinion, it is a very small part. It is the parents responsibility to monitor and guide their children.
Aspyn P.37
ReplyDeleteI believe it is more likely for young men to hit when they are angry because when little boys play they are more likely to fight and horseplay when they want their way. These habits may follow them when they get older. When boys are also bullied and teased they are more likely to fight physically and girls are more likely to fight mentally or verbally. Testosterone plays a big part in why males are more likely to fight and why they want to be dominate. There are several consequences to fighting including law problems such as jail time. The biggest consequence this can lead to is death if some situation gets out of hand.
Aspyn P. 37 In response to Staci H. 28
ReplyDeleteI agree, parents have a big way in how their child acts. In society today, boys are also held to a higher standard where they should be tougher and more physically fit. This leads them to fight each other because they try to see who is more manly.
Autumn H. 28
ReplyDeleteChildren today are exposed to violence from various forms of media, thier peers and society in general. However, I think that the media plays a big role in the prevelance of this type of behavior, as it glamorizes and encourages it.
Violent themes are a common place in television, movies, music lyrics, toys and video games being promoted toward young boys. While a certain level of viloence has always been present in male play themes (cowboys and indians, cops and robbers, super hero villian, Bugs vs. Wile E Cayote, etc.), the driving theme behind the violence in those games was good versus bad. Unfortunately that is not always the case with the themes they are exposed to today. There is definitely a "violence for power and prestige" trend in a lot of what we find acceptable to allow our children to engage in.
What I find the most troubling about this, is that we are allowing violence to be peddled to young children, yet we have taken away a parents right to discipline their children as they see fit (ie: spanking, and other physical forms of punishment). When children see violent acts as a way to gain power and control over others, and the child has never had to experience this type of control themselves, they become desensitized and are more likey to be the source of pain to others.
The consequences of this type of agressive behavior today can be a lack of acceptance by society, jail time or other leagal issues. as well as having a negative impact on society. If this trend continues, it wil no doubt be passed on to future generations and change the social values and society as we know it today.
In response to Ashley G. 95
ReplyDeletePhysical punishment has been used by parents as a method of discipline for years. I myself was the recipient of many spankings, as were my brothers, friends, parents and grandparents. I also went to Catholic school where corporal punishment was used. I am not a violent person, I do not hit or threaten to get my way or to retaliate when someone angers me. Nor do any of the people I know who did experience physical punishment. I am not talking about child abuse, but just a simple straight forward spanking. I think that too many people use the two interchangabley. While I agree that a child who is abused will learn to react with violence, I feel that simple spanking does not.
Allysa H. 28
ReplyDeleteI believe that violence happens when communication fails. I'm a girl and not the kind prone to violence but I do think it has a place: mainly out of self defense. Where our boys (and girls sometimes) get confused is when they consider violence as a means to an end. A way to gain respect, a means of insulting a girl or guy who rejected their advances etc. And while no teenager I know would say "this is my method of coping with insecurity and rejection", I believe that is how it's learned. It could be in an abusive home, among abusive friends, because of disability, or at the hands of addiction, but a person who regularly resorts to violence for problem solving is having a communication breakdown. The consequences are obviously dysfunctional relationships; bullies and the bullied both suffer from verbal or physical violence. A dysfunctional way of relating to others can be passed down for generations. In summary: the guy who punches back to protect himself? Justified. The guy who punches out his roommate for making him angry by say...leaving food out? Not so much.
Autumn H. 28 in response to Sheiletta J. 36
ReplyDeleteSheiletta, I absolutely agree that parents need to take a stand against the media. This is an area that I feel very stongly about. I have done a lot of research on the impact that this industry has on our children and society. From sexualizing young girls to creating violent young men, the media is sure to be the downfall of our social values and well-being. Stronger regulations and stricter fines for those that do not adhere is a topic that should be addressed. However, the easiest way to stand up to these industries is to protest with our wallets. If we choose to not buy into negative values, maybe industries would not continue to try to instill them.
Allysa H. 28 in response to Lauren M.
ReplyDeleteThe entertainment industry does play a role, for sure! I have major beef with what I refer to as "horror porn" - movies that serve no purpose other than to show images of horrific physical and psychological terror. Subject matter alone does not have the same effect on the brain as subject matter with images. My own husband, who has served years in Iraq can testify to the overpowering numbness that seeing too much violence creates. In fact, when he finally came home he routinely tried to see if he could get an element of shock from movies, youtube, video games etc. just to see if there was anything left that surprised him. That's obviously a symptom of PTSD, but still.....what if our violent boys are experiencing something similar? I will say this, there have been images in movies that took days for me to recover from.
Adam Smith
ReplyDeleteAs I grew up my father made it clear to me that violence would never be accepted. I tell my son the same thing. I am not sure however that society as a whole is teaching boys to be honorable anymore. I agree with all the posts that it is up to the parents to control what thier kids are watching. It is hard for kids not to look at the glorified way that the entertainment serves up violence.
Staci H. 28
ReplyDeleteI keep looking for a "like" button! Very good comments.
In response to Adam Smith: So true, the entertainment industry is trumping what parents may try to do to raise their children properly.
Dry, V. 29
ReplyDeleteI think this behaviour is due to two reasons. First of all, there is a lack of consistent, positive male influence in the lives of many boys today (i.e. fathers) The father figure serves to instill positive morals and as a role model, consistently demonstrating appropriate responses to situations, including when someone makes you angry. Therefore, the lack of that essential consistent, positive instruction leaves boys unequipped how to handle situations and therefore, they handle them in an un-coached, knee-jerk, male-inclined manner, which is to be aggressive. Secondly, I think the reason for the belief/the way the behaviour is learned is through watching others in society. It is amazing how intensely and immediately people get aggressive over almost everything today. When you observe others, especially adults in your life as a growing boy, respond aggressively with little or only imagined reason, it speaks loudly to the male mind that this is how things should be handled. Furthermore, not only do males see that in those close to them, but they see it everywhere they go.
Dry, V. 29
ReplyDeleteConsequences: As a child, the behavior could be ignored, the other person could retaliate in kind, the school could involve parents, administrators, counselors, and the police, as well as give in-school or at home suspension. Permanent information could be attached to the child's records, which will impact future competitive opportunities the child may be pursuing. The child's reputation would also be impacted, and therefore, any required future references for whatever competitive pursuit may be impacted. Also, the child and/or the other person could be injured temporarily or permanently, mildly or in life-changing ways. There can be legal, both criminal and civil consequences as well. In sum, it is a very bad idea to hit or threaten anybody ever, as the consequences could range from nothing to far-reaching.
Vaness D. 29 in response to Aspyn P. 37
ReplyDeleteI agree that males are more likely to respond physically since that is how they behave from birth. They are just physical beings, such as when they wrestle as little boys, like you mentioned. Add testosterone into the mix, plus the intensely emotional experience of being bullied for instance, and you have a recipe for physical alteration. That is why it is so important that they learn the right way to respond from the very beginning, consistently throughout their growing up years.
I believe that several factors have a role in violent behavior. The media plays a large role in what children/teens think is "cool"-fighting, killing, etc.
ReplyDeleteIt all starts at home, with what the child's environment is like- fighting and substance abuse around little Johnny is going to have an effect, and I think too many adults are too selfish to realize what they are doing to their children.
1)food 2) television programming 3)drugs and alchohol.
ReplyDeleteThe chemicals in the food causes an increase in aggression, added to that since the 50's violence is the new thing that says your a man on TV. From James Bond to Bruce Willis...and so on. Drugs and alchohlo are so easily obtained now and lots of foods include harmful drugs and the remedy that the world offers now is MORE DRUGS ie ritalin, bunch of crap. Just my opinion
Connie S.(28)
ReplyDeleteWhat great thoughts and postings on this subject!The debates about Hollywood, videos, spankings, etc are all very good....
but I tend to get a somewhat different take on the research....it states that across all races, young boys feel it is ok (read:socially acceptable)to strike out at another human being because they are "angry" at that person. Since when did this become acceptable? We are fast becoming a society (at least in the US) where it is perfectly alright to let our emotions dictate our behavior (remember "if it feels good, do it"?) Have we no more self-control? Did you see those people outside of the Casey Anthony trial hitting each other? As adults, can't we agree to disagree without getting violent? Is this because we allow so much violence in our lives from the evening news to video games? I believe so.
But, regardless of how much violence we become acclimated to, and where that violence comes from, the consequences are grave if society starts condoning it. We must teach our children (and some adults apparently) that there are more appropiate ways to express our emotions, especially anger.
Robin T.29
ReplyDelete1)food 2) television programming 3)drugs and alchohol.
The chemicals in the food causes an increase in aggression, added to that since the 50's violence is the new thing that says your a man on TV. From James Bond to Bruce Willis...and so on. Drugs and alchohlo are so easily obtained now and lots of foods include harmful drugs and the remedy that the world offers now is MORE DRUGS ie ritalin, bunch of crap. Just my opinion
Robin T.29 in response to Connie S.
ReplyDeleteAgain the fact remains that if your mind is altered due to engineered food or drugs or programming from tv, radio, etc... this is a huge factor on what your mind feels is ok. All logic, reasoning, goes out the window. Where the head goes the body follows, tv tells you repeatedly to fight and to kill, all in the name of justice or I'm right or ajudication. music in your head saying repeatedly sex be a whore be violent, ie Sasha fierce, Lady GAGA, look at the names of groups and lyrics and this is what we listen to day in day out. Really from birth we are being programmed to be violent males especially. Adults on down to the children are being programmed. Being bad is popular now just look around at everything billboards to commercials etc....
Anneliese R. 29
ReplyDeleteI believe this behavior begins directly from home life.If the child has an abusive father/mother they are more likely to have anger issues from childhood to adulthood. Another effect would be video games rated from T to M. There is a lot violance and foul language, and if they are not monitored by parents anger issues could arise from these as well.
Anneliese R in response to Robin T 29.
ReplyDeleteI agree wth Robin regarding the other issues that could make anger increase. There are so many chemicals in food( like chicken nuggets and even white bread) you really do not know if the food companies are putting in an ingrediant as an experiment. "Big brother"
Sarah C.28
ReplyDeleteI personally believe that this behavior is learned at home, by peers, and the media. By playing violent video games, they learn violent behavior and thus sometimes act it out in real life. In 2007, a 16 year old teen shot and killed his mother and injured his father after they took away his Halo 3 game. The media keeps introducing more and more violence into what we watch. More TV shows having fighting and if a kid watches it he is going to try to act it out. There should be stronger regulations on what kids watch and play.
Sarah C.28 in response to Anneliese R.29
ReplyDeleteI agree with your comment. Video games now a days are much more violent and advocating stealing cars and shooting people. If the kid is in a abusive home then most likely he or she is going to take it out on another kid at school.
E.LynneR.28
ReplyDeleteIn my opinion, I feel this type of behavior is learned by the environment the male is exposed to as a child. They may idolize an older sibling, father or other relative or friend and decide they want to be just like them when they grow up or they often feel that this type of behavior is normal. Some of the more common consequences of this behavior is jail or death. Some other possible consequences are drugs, gangs and loss of family relationships.
E. LynneRoss.28 In response to Autumn H....That is another very powerful way young people, even adults are exposed to violence. Most times it is glorified. If that's what they are exposed to on a regular basis with nothing to teach them different, the chances of them not repeating this type of behavior is very slim.....Good point!
ReplyDeleteDawn W. 28 I think it could be learned if it is seen in the home. Also it could be learned from peers,movies, video games,exposure to drugs and alcohol,or that boys are taught not to show their emotions so they have all this built up frustration and do not know how to deal with it so they become violent.
ReplyDeleteThe possible outcome of being violent is death, or jail.
Dawn W. 28 In resonse to E. Lynner.28 I did not think of the possible consequences that you spoke of....great point!!!
ReplyDeleteKathryn C. 28
ReplyDeleteViolence in young men can be blamed on parents, school, movies, gangs, TV and many other influences. I am sure they each take part in today's violence. However if this is a recent study I think we should also consider the effect of our country being at war. My husband did 3 tours over seas and I am very proud of his service. When you live in a country that is at war and the war is glorified I wonder if this effects young men? Is it easier to solve personal problems with a fight when most of your friends and family agree with that strategy to solve our countries issues?
Kathryn C. 28 in response to Dry, V. 29
ReplyDeleteI think you make a very good point that our youth (especially the boys) need moral and kind male role models.
Carrie H. 28
ReplyDeleteParents, movies, video games, friends, all have influence on how a boy is supposed to act and what is acceptable for boys isn't so acceptable for girls. But I think boys are just born with a more physical nature. They bond by wrestling and being rough and tumble. When they are little it is as cute as when puppies do the same thing. Then they grow older and they are truning into more of a "man" and have to be guided in appropriate ways to deal with their nature. Not all tendencies towards hitting have to turn out with crime and jail. In my home martial arts has brought an outlet and discipline to my teenage son. He has also talked about going into the police force or military. We can't all be passive. We should be teaching our young men to stand up strong when needed but that its also good to back down and let things go when its not needed.
Connie S. (29)in response to a few folk up there!
ReplyDeleteIt's the old "nature vs. nurture" theory (are we violent because we are programmed or do we become violent due to our environment?)...As humans we are genetically programmed to fight when we feel threatened, forage for food, etc. As the only species on the planet that can reason, some societies have tried to evolve into pacificism...I say some because the society that encompasses this sociology class is not the only society on earth. There are tribes in the Amazon, for example, that still fight other tribes, hunt for food, etc. Are they violent? If they didn't fight back, they would be anilated. The question is..Do they beat up each other or their wives? Probably not. Does violence beget violence? There are people who are violent whose homelife would not be descibed as violent (Ted Bundy comes to mind). My son grew up playing a comuter game with his dad...I think it was called "Doom"..that I thought was awful...really violent...but both he and his dad are not in the least bit violent. So, what does all this mean? I don't know...I just think as a parent we should quit giving our children so much processed food ( I strongly agree with all comments about what we eat), control their televison, video games, and get back to playing outside more. Yes, the little boys (and some of us girls) will play war, but it is all a healthy part of what we humans are!....
I believe this behavior is learned at home and throughout their day to day environment. Everywhere you look these days you see violence whether it be on the street, tv, video games, or movies. It is the responsibilty of the parent(s) to reinforce that this is not an acceptable behavior.
ReplyDeleteHeather B. 29
ReplyDeleteI believe this behavior is learned at home and throughout their day to day environment. Everywhere you look these days you see violence whether it be on the street, tv, video games, or movies. It is the responsibilty of the parent(s) to reinforce that this is not an acceptable behavior.
Heather B 29. In response to Connie S 28.
ReplyDeleteYou make some great points. People tend to forget or don't care that their actions may effect someone else negatively. It is all about instant gratification. I wonder if the lack of face to face communication these days has any impact on this.
Melissa H. 28
ReplyDeleteI could go along with the most popular answers by blaming this behavior on TV, video games, or your environment, but I won't. I believe it is just a lack of parenting. My father spanked me, I played video games, and I watched violent shows & cartoons on TV. I am not, nor is my brother, a person who believes it is okay to hit or threaten others. I think it is just human nature to be react badly when something makes you angry. For this reason, it is the parents responsibility to train their child on how to react in real life situations.
There are many possible consequences to this type of behavior. These could include suspension from school, loss of job, jail time, getting hurt, or even being killed.
Melissa H. 28 In response to E.LynneR.28
ReplyDeleteI have to disagree with your source for learning this behavior. Children are born selfish and a violent environment may nuture that behavior but that is not where it is learned. Violent behavior is just a natural occurance that good child training can diminish. A natural reaction to a baby not wanting the bowl of food you give them is for them to throw it. It is your job to put an end to the violent reactions that we are born with as they occur in your child's life.
Racquel C.29
ReplyDeleteI must say that it's not okay to hurt anyone regardless of any situation. I feel that parents do their best with teaching their kids right from wrong and unfortually some kids end up doing more wrong that right. This behavior could be learned at home or even in certain environments they are in. I feel that when parents spend time with their kids and keep them active with sports, etc. they usually have a fair life and stay out of trouble. Also, if parents continue to work with their kids and keep them in a positive environment they can beat the odds and stay out of trouble or not treaten another persons life.
POSTED BY C.S. HENDERSON
ReplyDeleteThis is one of those issues that is hard to pinpoint to a single cause. Many people list the discipline techniques used at home as a primary cause.
I tend to disagree with this point of view mainly due to the fact that discipline techniques have acctually grown milder over the years. I remember hearing my parents talking about being taken out behind the wood pile when they were growing up. Yet now days even a simple spanking by hand is often frowned on.
One contributing factor may be this lack of displine in todays youth. That said however a child should not be disciplined out of anger. It must be done while the adult is not displaying any anger and with an explanation as to what was done wrong.
I also tend to agree with the point put across by many of the people here who stated that they feel the violence depicted on television and in games plays a large part in the increase in violence. However this is a strong indicator of parenting (or lack thereof. I see it all to often in my line of work where the parents dont spend any time with thier kids and the children are forced to occupy their selves with the violent video games and television shows. Or even worse hanging around with the wrong kids who their parents never bother checking on. If parents were to step up and make an effort to spend more time with their kids and be more involved then I feel things would be much different.
I understand that this may be difficult for some parents to fit into their schedules however it can be done in almost all but the most extreme schedules.
Maryann Hein 27
ReplyDeleteI believe, that like many people here noted, that behavior is predominantly learned. Whether from parents, siblings, peers, or the media. Children typically behave in a manner consistent with what they have witnessed. Video games and television play a large role in a child's life today, and many of the shows, even cartoons, are violent and also depict no consequences for the violence. Parents need to stay involved in their child's life and provide an appropriate role model.
The consequences of this behavior can be far reaching. The child not only gets into trouble for his violent actions, but is also avoided by his peers. This may make him even more unstable as he now has no one else to model after. Communication can also breakdown with violence and this creates a negative feedback cycle that only perpetuates the violence in the child.
Kevin M. 29
ReplyDeleteI Believe the 42% of high school males stem from the 37% of the males representing as their role models. High school male usuall act as thie role models act and if the same 37% of males are raising the children then thier children are going to act as they do.
In responce to Carrie H.28
Video games, and movies, arent to blame if children learned the the diffrence between right and wrong, and are able to distinguish real life from a game or movie.
Carrie H. 28 in response to Melissa H. 28
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that sources such as video games and media only affect our kids to the extent that we allow them too. If you are teaching your kid how to cope in real life situations then they know right from wrong and will most likely choose to walk away or do the right thing. And sometimes someone may push your buttons until you make a bad choice. It's easy to react quickly without thinking and hit or threaten. You pay the consequences and that's how you figure out not to do it next time. If anything it is a lack of discipline and consequences that lead to kids giving into these temptations.
Autumn H. in response to Robin T. 29
ReplyDeleteSo true Robin. Medicating children with chemicals that affect brain function is ridiculous! If we medicate children for their behavior, rather than teach them self-control and discipline, they will lack the emotional skills needed to self-regulate their emotions and the resulting behavior.
Aruna Vegesina 28
ReplyDeleteI think this type of thinking has been passed down from old times. In a society, men had the responsibility of taking care of the family. This included showing violent behavior when in threat of danger. The negative aspect of this notion is men or boys showing violent behavior toward one's own ie other human beings.
The consequences of violent behavior are more violence. It becomes a vicious cycle.
Aruna 28 in response to Melissa 28
ReplyDeleteI agree with Melissa that parents have the responsibility of teaching their kids about self-control. The teaching needs to start early in life, especially in the forming years. This evil in society has end and everyone of us has a part to play.
Krystal H. 28
ReplyDeleteI think the child learns anger from home life, school and public eye. The cliché is that it starts in the home, which is true. A parent needs to make their child understand right and wrong. However, I also believe that children learn from example so if they see this behavior outside at a park or in the classroom, they think it is okay. Now, a lot of public schools have become very violent and unfortunately, there's not much being done about it. I also think this has something to do with society making boys/men feel they have to be the continued protector and provider (even though times have changed and still are changing every day). More and more women are becoming the sole provider, etc. but I believe as a society we still place men in this role. The pressures for these kids to always be seen as the person in charge gets harder. It's mainly up to the parents to teach the kids wrong from right, but I think any other mentor in the child's life should have a hand in this as well-Teachers, Counselors, Coaches, etc.
Also, I think more children should get outside and play instead of sitting in front of the tv playing violent video games. It is my belief that video games can have an effect on behavior as well. I can remember when I was a kid, if I lost at a video game I would throw the remote across the room. (I rarely played these games because of that...haha)
I would also like to know what the percentages are for young girls who express violent behavior.
Krystal H. 28
ReplyDeleteIn reply to Ashley G. 95 & Brandon W. 28
I understand your concerns with spanking and how the child can learn violdent behavior from that; however, I do think that if a parent is going to spank a child it be for an honest reason and it's explained to the child why they were punished and why it's not okay to do that to others. We've gotten so politically correct that even the smallest little spanking has people freaked out and calling DFCS. I was (rarely) spanked growing up and I do not see anything wrong with it.
Ashley Crawford. 29
ReplyDeleteI believe that it can start from home, watching tv shows or even who they surround themselves with. most young children just follow what they see, they would think its kool to do it. the parent plays a big role on how children act,its up to the parent to show their child whats wrong and whats right
Possible consequences can be jail time
KIMBERLY CARR 28
ReplyDeleteI think this behavior is learned at home. Its can be seen on tv, within the home,from other family members,or even friends.
This behavior starts early, so if children are exposed to this behavior then how would they know any different?
Consequences to this behavior varies. You can be locked up for battery or assualt. As a child, one could harm their record by putting this on it. One can retalliate and harm you( the one who originally started the fight). We must have and show self control.
KimberlyC28 in response to E. LynneR
ReplyDeleteI agree with your response. This behavior is learned in the environment the child is exposed to. And consequences are sometimes jail or even death.
Jessica S in response to Adam Smith
ReplyDeleteI couldn't have said it better myself. Punishing a child for his/her wrong doings is key. If you ignore it, the child believes that it is okay.
Ashley G. 95 in response to KIMBERLY CARR 28
ReplyDeleteI agree with your response. I do think this behavior is learned at home. The fact is that people learn from others. (either family, TV, etc), if a child never saw people acting out of anger, I doubt any serious event would happen.
All people should learn to show self control.
Diamond D. 29
ReplyDeleteI believe that a behavior like this comes from what kids see at home and also on tv. kids tend to repeat what they are use to seeing and seeing it frequently would make it seem more ok.
Diamond D. 29 respond to Kevin M. 29
ReplyDeletei am not aware of the stats but i totally agree that most behaviors come from a role model
Jessica S. 28
ReplyDeleteI believe this behavior is something that is learned during formative years. When the child is much younger, they seem to observe more rather than act. The child is around said behavior so when they become around the same age as the person or people they observed they then act out what they witnessed for years.
Jessica S. 28 in response to Krystal H. 28
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you with parents being responsible for teaching their children right from wrong. Children are inevitably going to witness unsavory behavior out in society or on videogames. Parents of these children are responsible for differentiating between right wrong for these children.
Gregori L.29
ReplyDeleteIn your opinion, where or how is this behavior learned?
I would assume there are a few factors that lead to this behavior. First people learn by seeing what other people do so it's possible they picked it up either observing their parents or some other people around them. I wouldn't just solely put this at blame of the parents however. Boys learn from their friends who hit each other as well. They may have learned this while hanging out with their friends. One of their friend's may have an abusive father or mother and they in turn act that way around their friends, which makes them thinks think it is ok as well.
There is another possible way this was learned. Again by observing those around him he may have picked it up through one form of entertainment (tv, movies, or video games). There are too many possible reasons to just say there is only contributing factor. The mostly likely scenario is a combination of all of the things I have listed. Seeing people fighting at home, fighting with friends, and then seeing it on television must make people think that it is ok.
What are possible consequences?
I have heard that some students have been kicked out of the public school system because of their physical behavior. This would be the worst possible consequence. If the child doesn't have the right education background it will be hard for them to find work in their future. However, this can't always be 100% true; things may change as the child gets older.
It could lead to them to have the tendencies throughout their lifetime, which could in turn lead them to a life of crime with possible jail time.
It would also lead them to live a better life if they see how bad it really can get. They would feel empowered to help more kids their age, or even younger, to not live this sort of way. I wouldn't say every possible outcome would be negative, though there is more potential for it to be negative.
Gregori L.29 in response to Brandon W (28)
ReplyDeleteI like how you take the topic personal as it must hit close to home for you. I am not a parent so it's cool to see your perspective. I'm glad that you’re responsible enough to understand that it is the parents who are most potentially at fault with this sort of situation. It appears as if you take this kind of thing head on rather than taking a passive role. It's also good to know how my children, if I happen to have any, could react to punishment
Jorge W28
ReplyDeleteI believe the nature of humans is selfishness and maturity and character have to be taught, and exemplified. Two children who have never seen violence will by nature become selfish and when feelings of anger are aroused without any other way of communicating to resolve the matter, the immature reaction of man is violence. Of course violence can and is a learned behavior but even without this learned behavior children exemplify pure reactions unmasked by hidden motives that can be more easly discerned. You can spend years of teaching that which is right and a single day of rebellion can overide due to the nature of man. I also believe there is a strong difference between discipline and abuse of which I have been the student of both subjects.
Jorge W28 in response to Jessica S28
ReplyDeleteI agree that much of the behaviour is assimulated through the home however we can not rule out the corruptive nature within even a child when it come to getting what they want at the expense of everything else. Even my two year old throws a fit when she does not get her way although she had ever seen me fall a=on the floor and start kicking and screaming.
Andrea M. 28
ReplyDeleteI believe that the views and opinions of the males interviewed reflect things they LEARNED. There are many societal influences that shape the way people handle situations. They may have seen it in the home or even in the community in which they live. They have most likely had violent responses either toward them or to those around them to think it's okay for them to do the same.
Sarah Bean (29)
ReplyDeleteIn my opinion, this behavior is learned by the parent. As a mother, I have learned that my son copies every thing i do or say and I could only imagine boys at that age would do the same. If they grew up only knowing that hitting and spanking was okay, they are going to practice it on other people. The consequences of their actions may land them in trouble at school or even worse, land them in jail.
In response to Andrea M. 28
I agree with you. I think if they had a violent upbringing then they will carry it with them for the rest of their lives.
Kazzi L (29)
ReplyDeleteI think that kids learn this behavior from many differnt things such as; home, tv, radio, internet, etc.. I do believe that it can be learned from the home if there is violence or abuse. The child can pick that up very easily and think it is ok to act in that manner. I also think that every child needs a good spanking when they are bad as long as its a controled situation. Todays media also shows so much violence that children are picking up on it.They are also learning things from there peers. If they get to out of had with violence either there going to get a good butt whoopen by someone bigger and stronger or they will end up going to jail.
Kazzi l (29) in response to Lauren M
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. The violence does not just come from the home. There are so many violent games and shows and they can pick it up from anything like that.
Dionne F.28
ReplyDeleteThis behavior usually comes from experiences in the home , like abusive parents. Or if the child finds comfort in confiding with someone in the neighborhood, whom might have a criminal background but is still liked and accepted by everyone in the neighborhood. Unfortunately this child may see him as a role model and follow him down the wrong path.
The possible consequences of these kinds of behavior is jail or death for crimes committed.
Dionne F.28 In response to Gregori L.29
ReplyDeleteYour statement I think mentioned all the possible causes of violent behavior. I totally agree with everyone, the media, the friends, the games they all can take the innocence away from a growing child.Unfortunately if the child doesn't have positive reinforcement in the home, that's when they take there anger out in school or social gatherings.
This behavior is learned for the most part at home but that’s not it. It can also be learned for movies, TV, etc. There are possible consequences for these actions like jail time. No one wants to sit in jail for a fight that could have been solved with words.
ReplyDeleteThis behavior is generally learned by example, whether it is on t.v. or by a parent or peer. I believe that people ought to be taught to stick up for themselves and not avoid a fight if they can't but to never start one. There are no consequences for self defense.
ReplyDeleteIsaiah P.
ReplyDeleteThis behavior is generally learned by example, whether it is on t.v. or by a parent or peer. I believe that people ought to be taught to stick up for themselves and not avoid a fight if they can't but to never start one. There are no consequences for self defense.
Isaiah P. in response to Sarah Bean
ReplyDeleteI agree that the larger percent on influence is going to come from the parent, especially at an early age when the parent controls the content that the child is exposed to.
Endé C. 29
ReplyDeleteI think that boys and young men learn violent behavior from their environment, starting in the home. I have seen boys as young as two or three years old that felt it was acceptable behavior to hit, shove, bite, choke, or throw things at others when they were upset. They see the behaviors of others at home, out in public, on television, and in other media outlets and imitate them. I think in two-parent homes, many of the habits boys pick up come from their fathers, and if there is no father or father-figure present boys find influences outside of the home, both positive and negative. As a teacher, I have occasionally witnessed fathers encourage violent behavior in young boys or brush off acts of violence, fighting, or roughhousing as being manly, tough, and “just boys being boys.” I have also witnessed how domestic disputes, movies, and video games have influenced violence in young boys in situations where the parents were unaware the children were watching. In the case of high school and middle aged young men, I feel their violent actions are more a misdirected display of rebellion, anger, frustration, pressure from society and influence by peers. By the time a young man is in high school, he should know right from wrong, and in regardless of his circumstance, the decision to hit or threaten someone is a conscientious choice.
Some of the possible consequences of the young men’s learned violent actions is gradual progression to more violent behaviors, juvenile delinquency, imprisonment, loss of opportunities (employment, family, or romantic relationships), a pattern of violence being repeated in subsequent generations, inability to control or manage anger response, and being killed or injured by engaging in a confrontation on the losing end.
Omowumi A.28
ReplyDeleteI believe that kids learn most of their behaviors at home either directly or indirectly.
An adage said "Charity begins at home." Most kids are left alone at home watch violent movies where they learn how to hit and kill someone, also some parent when their children comes home to report their classmate, they encourage their children to always fight back instead of telling them to report the issue to their teacher.
Consequences when someone hit others can make that person to kill someone and this might lead to lifetime imprisonment.
Endé C. 29 in response to Jorge W. 28
ReplyDeleteI disagree that selfishness, hidden motives, and corrupted behavior is human nature, and that even without learned behavior it will manifest itself with immature reactions. The emotion of being angry is natural, however, boys and girls learn how to channel those emotions, and their primary teachers are their parents. In this case, high school and middle aged young men can decide to hit or threaten others, but they are not pre-programmed to do so. Obviously, they have either ignored reason and acted purely on emtion,are still too immature to understand the repercussions of their actions (which is highly unlike at their age), or never learned conflict mediation and resolution. An angry person can have any number of reactions aside from hitting and threatening others. If they decide to use violence, it reflects learned behavior more than natural inclination towards selfish behavior.
Omowumi A.28 In response to Melissa H. 28.
ReplyDeleteI totally disagree with Melissa when she said it is human nature to react badly when something makes you angry. You don't react to everything that makes you angry. As a matter of fact when you are angry you are not suppose to react because you might end up getting all the blames. So i think we need to learn on how to discipline ourselves especially the parents because our children are watching us. I also advise that we should always be a good examples to others.
Omowumi A.28 In response to Anneliese R.29
ReplyDeleteI agree with Anneliese when she said if a child has an abusive father or mother that the child or children are more likely to have anger issue from childhood to adulthood. It is true because we are a product of our environment and society. The first part of the society is the family where we come from or where we are being raised or brought up. If a child leave with a violent person definitely the child will grow up to be a violent person.
Brian T. 82
ReplyDeleteI believe that physical aggression and the acceptance of acting on it is derived from popular culture, where it influences boys who grow up to be fathers, who in turn influence their sons. Popular culture holds (and has for as long as anyone can remember) boys and men to a certain expectation of machismo, and part of 'being a man' is projecting a certain physical authority onto other men. I also believe that popular culture and society in general have held on to this image of manliness because it's based (at least in part) on primal urges to establish a hierarchy within a social group, in which the dominant male is most likely to attract more women. I don't really foresee men as ever truly becoming less physically aggressive, just the aggression becoming more subdued for fear or the legal consequences.
Brian T. 82 in response to Racquel C.29
ReplyDeleteI agree, to some extent, that positive and negative reinforcement at home by the parents gives a child a much better chance at being nonviolent and a more productive member of society as an adult. In practice, however, this approach is only going to be so useful. If a child is being bullied at school, what do you say to them? Do you tell them to just take it? Do you advise them to 'tell on them'? In reality, when confronted with such a situation, as a boy who has been told by movies and television and his peers that 'real men don't take crap', what do you think he's going to do? He's either going to get beaten up and ostracised for being a sissy, or he's going to fight back, usually through physical means. The problem here lies in the group, not the individual, and as long as more people believe violence is okay than don't, there will be pressure on the good kids to fight back.
I believe that the behavior that is experienced between these boys is not from the home but from school. Boys are taught to be agressive or be picked on at school. so I think this is taught at school because if they aren't this way then they will be bullied. For instance I have two boys one is bullied because he won't fight at school and the other is not bullied because if other children mess with him he defends him self. He is not aggressive on his own he has to be pushed to that point.
ReplyDeleteDanielleg 29 In response to Omowumi A.28
ReplyDeleteI disagree because I never taught my children violence in the home. They were taught at school. I complained to school and nothing was done. It takes children to go around committing suicide for bullying to be stopped. Sometimes it kids bullying in response to home life but it is not always learned at home.
Danielleg 29 in response to Ashley G. 95
ReplyDeleteMy children were spanked from age two and they are well behaved at school. They mind there manners and I don't have constant calls from the school. The difference people confuse spanking with abusive beatings. My children understood when they were spanked it was because they did something wrong. Your theory is not always right those children how went and shot up those other children in school weren't spanked they were bullied. it's a difference. My children are older now they don't get spanked because they don't have to be they are well behaved and don't bully at school. Its when children stopped being spanked is when you had bully and more agression. Please don't mix up beatings with spankings. Spanking are when they get tapped on bottom with hand not beat with fist like they are grown ups.
Charlaya A.
ReplyDeleteBehavior is learned, whether it be from family members, peers or the media. The person needs to learn self control. There are many consequences that follow this type of aggression. The boy could decide to challenge anothor boy that he may think is inferior and wind up getting hurt himself. If the aggression contiunes in life it could definetly lead to incareration or possibly death.
Charlaya A.
ReplyDeleteIn responce to April B. I agree with you totally. It is up to the parents to see negative behavior and to correct it before it gets out of hand. luckily for me, I am home during the day so I can monitor what they watch on television. Their dadand I are very consciousness about what we do and say around them. Now, as far as what they are exposed to at school, we have no control over, but hopefullly we are doing enough at home to combat any other negative behavior they might be exposed to.
Silke A. 28
ReplyDeleteThis is not surprising to me. There are many changes that have taken place in this society over the last generations that might have contributed to these kind of views in our male population. One very important change is that today's kids do not have the respect for their parents that previous generation's kids had. The family structure has changed tremendously. The father is often not the only breadwinner and his authoritative status within the family unit has changed. Many mothers have careers and the partners work together to make family decisions. Even though these can be positive changes, there are also negative changes associated with it. Children do not see their mothers do as their fathers say, making them less inclined to do as their parents say. In addition, children have less boundaries, and parents, trying to fulfill modern society's many demands are often too tired to enforce them. Children have no important roles within the family anymore. They do not need to contribute labor to help their families survive. All these changes can lead to a lack of respect which is first exhibited in the home but then transfers to other members of society. In addition, "softer" parenting techniques that emphasize not hurting childrens' feelings, exposure to violent video games, afternoons spent alone when both parents work, the loss of a neighborhood structure where neighbors helped each other out, the high pressures today to succeed and live the American dream all can lead to deviant behaviors, as is represented in the views of the males that were sampled. I think society in general, the way we raise our children, the way the schools educate our children, and the pressures of modern life all contribute to behaviors in some members of society that are harmful to others.
Silke A. 28
ReplyDeleteTo continue my comment, I believe that people who think it is ok to react in a violent manner to certain situations are a danger to other members of society. Consequences can be dire for people making threats or resorting to violence to resolve conflicts. They can even be more dire for the victims, who may get hurt or even killed in a violent encounter where self-control is lost.
Silke A. 28 in response to Ashley G. 95
ReplyDeleteAshley, I do not believe that spanking has contributed to the mentioned behaviors. There are many cultures that resort to a lot more spanking than is done here in the US, but their children exhibit less violent tendencies than the children in this country. Also, previous generations of children in this country received more spankings, but I don't think as many of those children exhibited those violent tendencies and lack of respect for others.
Edgar 29
ReplyDeleteI believe that this is in direct result of how our society has embraced violence. When I was growing up, so so long ago, the entertainment industries was cautious to portray a great deal of violence in its movies, and video games. We had games such as space invaders, pac-man, and missle command. It is true that there were violence in movies, but most of them had a R rating and parents were more strict in values and morals. Now, the industry has extremely violent game like Call of Duty, Grand Theft Auto, and countless others as well as having more risque tv programming like UFC, and yes even real world, and such shows that are teaching the next generation that it is not desensitizing our youth on violence, but also condoning promisquity (sp) and behavior that would have been considered immoral in the recent past. PG movies have even been loaded up with violnce and brief nudity, and I believe all these thing contribute to the thought processes of our younger generation; deviance bnot only in the males but also the females. But the entertainment industry is not the only blame for this outcome in my opinion, the home has a part to play as well. Parents aren't getting involved as much as they used to. I read in an earlier post that someone implied spanking a child had something to do with the problem. I DISAGREE. There is a line that some may fine hard to distinguish, but when I was growing up, my mother would whoop my @$$ if I got out of line, and while I dont think you should know a child out, or break any bones, I think that discipline helped me to think aboutmy actions before I acted. I am not talking about abuse, i am talking about disciple, and i feel for those that can't differentiate, they should just stick with time outs.
Edgar H. 29
ReplyDeleteTo comment on danielleg and Silke A.'s response. I totally agree with your reponses. In addition, I think another contributing factor spawns from some of our greatest achievements in technology. With the invent of the internet, violent content becomes more readily accessible. Do a simple search on-line and you will quickly understand what I mean. I don't think we should, nor do I think it even possible to do away with the internet, but i must admit that it does become another obstacle on tackling the problems of our topic.
Camellia L. 28
ReplyDeleteI believe that media, music and parents have a lot to do with it. A lot of people have commented on in home violence, spanking. I believe that there is a big difference in spanking and violence. I agree with spanking a small child to apply consequences for bad behavior. But I do also agree that it can be taken overboard. Coming from a generation where getting a spanking was normal and practiced. I don't believe that it is the problem.
I think that violence in youth is from the music and media that they are exposed to. They have come to believe that acting this way is not only proactive but also socially exceptable. I can go on and on about what media and music are portraying as ok.
In closing, while in home violence can be a reason for teenage violence it doesn't explain the rise in percentage. I personally think that it can be better attributed to media, and music.