Violent Times : Exposure to Violence in Childhood

Violent Times: The Impact of Violence on Children

The violent times we live in have a profound impact on children. Exposure to violence can affect their emotional, cognitive and social development, and can change their perception of violence as a way to resolve conflicts.

In recent years, we have witnessed a worrying increase in the most serious crimes against people. Our country has experienced the emergence of new types of crimes that were previously non-existent or had a low prevalence, but which have now increased in frequency at an alarming rate. These violent events not only affect adults, but also have a significant impact on children.

According to statistics, one in three children has witnessed situations of drug trafficking, shootings and shootings. These violent events, which were previously foreign to their reality, are now exposed in previously protected environments and become normalized. As parents and caregivers, we are deeply concerned that violence, whether symbolic or real, takes hold in the world of children and changes their threshold of acceptance. There is a fear that violence will be incorporated into their daily lives and, in the long run, will be accepted, validated and even used as a way to resolve social and personal conflicts.

The impact of violence on children

Exposure to violence can have devastating consequences on children's physical, emotional, and cognitive development. Children who witness violent situations can experience a series of negative short- and long-term effects.

Emotional effects

Violence can cause fear, anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress in children. These traumatic events can affect your ability to regulate your emotions and can lead to aggressive or withdrawn behaviors.

Cognitive effects

Exposure to violence can interfere with children's cognitive development. They may have difficulty concentrating, learning, and retaining information. Additionally, violence can affect your ability to peacefully solve problems and develop appropriate social skills.

Social effects

Violence can alter children's social relationships. They may have difficulty establishing healthy bonds with peers and adults. Furthermore, exposure to violence can normalize aggressive behaviors and generate acceptance of violence as a way to resolve conflicts.

Prevention and protection of children

Given this worrying reality, it is essential to take measures to prevent and protect children from violence. Both the State and society as a whole must work collaboratively to ensure a safe and healthy environment for children.

Education and awareness

It is necessary to implement educational programs that promote peaceful conflict resolution and teach children social and emotional skills. Furthermore, it is essential to raise awareness among adults about the impact of violence on children and promote violence-free parenting.

Access to support services

It is essential to ensure that children who have witnessed violence have access to psychological and social support services. These services can help them process their traumatic experiences and provide them with tools to overcome the negative effects of violence.

Strengthening institutions

It is necessary to strengthen the institutions in charge of protecting children and guarantee that acts of violence are investigated and punished. Furthermore, it is important to promote the participation of children in making decisions that affect them, so that they can express their opinions and be heard.

The violent times we live in have a profound impact on children. Exposure to violence can affect their emotional, cognitive and social development, and can change their perception of violence as a way to resolve conflicts. It is everyone's responsibility to work together to prevent and protect children from violence, guaranteeing a safe and healthy environment in which they can grow and develop fully.