Parents urged to take responsibility for schoolboy violence

The alarming increase in schoolboy beatings and bullying across Jamaica has become a cause for national concern. Almost every week, new reports emerge of students engaging in violent acts against their peers, leaving many Jamaicans to wonder where things have gone wrong.

While some blame the schools and teachers, the reality is that the foundation of this issue lies within the home. Parents must take greater responsibility for their children’s actions.

This issue comes to the fore even more now as we closed out Parent’s Month, a time when the role of parents is celebrated and reflected upon. While we recognise and applaud the efforts of many parents who strive to raise responsible children, the recent wave of school violence underscores that more must be done.

Parent’s Month should not simply be a time for recognition but a call to action – a starting point for parents to make a New Year’s resolution to take their role more seriously in shaping the behaviour and values of their children.

It is difficult to accept the claim that parents are unaware of what their children are doing. A child’s behaviour is often a direct reflection of their upbringing. If respect, discipline, and empathy were instilled at home, these violent tendencies would not surface. Instead, we are witnessing a troubling pattern where children resort to bullying and physical violence, causing harm to their peers and tarnishing the reputation of our schools.

NOT JUST A SCHOOL PROBLEM

Teachers and schools cannot bear the brunt of this issue alone. Jamaican educators are already stretched thin, balancing their roles as teachers, mentors, and sometimes even surrogate parents. While schools can enforce discipline and foster a positive environment, they cannot replace the influence of a solid home foundation. Parents must do their part to ensure their children are taught proper values and respect for others.

The government also has a role to play in addressing this issue. Greater emphasis must be placed on the role of parenting in curbing violence among students. Parenting workshops, national campaigns promoting family values, and community support programmes are urgently needed.

Furthermore, legislation should be considered to hold parents accountable when their children engage in acts of bullying or violence.

This is not just a school problem – it is a societal issue that affects the very fabric of our nation. Jamaica cannot thrive if its youth are being raised without accountability or respect for others.

As we reflect on Parent’s Month and prepare for the new year, let us resolve to do better as a nation. Parents must step up and take responsibility for the behaviour of their children. The future of our schools, communities, and nation depends on it.

Leroy Fearon is the Acting Dean, Faculty of Education, The Mico University College, author and researcher. Email feedback to: leroyfearon85@gmail.com and editorial@gleanerjm.com