1. Discuss the effectiveness of at least two (2) of the steps to reduce aggression and violence listed in Table 11.6 on page 479 of the textbook. 2. Provide a rationale for your response
There are several steps listed in Table 11.6 of the textbook that aim to reduce aggression and violence. In this discussion, we will analyze the effectiveness of two of these steps, namely “Enhance parents’ emotional communication with children” and “Provide children with social problem-solving training”.
Enhancing parents’ emotional communication with children can be an effective strategy to reduce aggression and violence. Numerous studies have shown that strong emotional bonds and open communication between parents and children are associated with lower levels of aggression. When parents engage in emotional communication, they provide a safe space for their children to express their emotions, discuss their concerns, and seek guidance. This type of communication not only helps children to develop emotional intelligence but also teaches them effective ways to manage anger and frustration without resorting to aggression.
Research in the field of child development has consistently shown that children who have secure attachments with their parents are less likely to exhibit aggressive behaviors. This is because secure attachments create a sense of trust and safety, which enables children to regulate their emotions more effectively. When children feel understood and supported by their parents, they are less likely to resort to aggressive behaviors as a means of dealing with their feelings. Therefore, by enhancing parents’ emotional communication with their children, we can promote healthier emotional development and reduce the likelihood of aggression and violence.
Another step listed in Table 11.6 is providing children with social problem-solving training. This strategy aims to equip children with the skills necessary to navigate social conflicts peacefully and find non-aggressive solutions to problems. Social problem-solving training typically involves teaching children a structured approach to resolving conflicts, including steps such as identifying the problem, generating alternative solutions, evaluating their potential outcomes, and selecting the most appropriate response.
Empirical evidence has consistently supported the effectiveness of social problem-solving training in reducing aggression and violence among children. Studies have shown that children who receive this type of training demonstrate significant improvements in their ability to resolve conflicts constructively, communicate assertively, and negotiate compromises. These skills enable them to effectively manage social situations and avoid resorting to aggression as a means of problem-solving.
One reason why social problem-solving training is effective in reducing aggression is that it enhances children’s social competence. By providing children with a structured approach to handling conflicts, they develop the necessary skills and confidence to engage in prosocial behaviors. They become better at understanding others’ perspectives, cooperating with their peers, and finding mutually beneficial solutions. Consequently, children are less inclined to engage in aggressive behaviors as they have alternative, non-violent strategies at their disposal.
Additionally, social problem-solving training helps children develop better emotional regulation skills. Children who receive this training learn to recognize their own emotions and those of others, which allows them to respond to conflicts in a more controlled manner. By teaching children alternative, non-aggressive strategies for conflict resolution, social problem-solving training gives them the tools to manage their emotions effectively, minimizing the likelihood of aggressive outbursts.
In conclusion, enhancing parents’ emotional communication with children and providing children with social problem-solving training are two effective steps to reduce aggression and violence. By strengthening emotional bonds and teaching children healthy ways to express and manage their feelings, parents can significantly decrease the likelihood of aggression. Similarly, equipping children with the skills to resolve conflicts non-aggressively promotes social competence and emotional regulation, thereby reducing aggression and violence.
