Nicosia, Cyprus. Parents’ associations raised concerns after a video showed a 14-year-old girl beating a peer in the presence of bystanders, blaming both parents and children for delinquent behaviour. Parent association confederation president Loizos Constantinou said delinquency is starting at earlier ages.
Concern over rising delinquency
Speaking to Sigma on Thursday, Constantinou said, “Unfortunately, things are getting worse,” adding that delinquency begins earlier, particularly in the early teens.
Schools not blamed as the cause
Constantinou said that while many cases are found in schools, schools are not cultivating delinquency. “It is a broader issue. We saw those scenes of violence […] and people watching as if they were at a match,” he said.
Calls for implementation of existing measures
Constantinou said legislation was not being fully implemented regarding clashes among children. He said that after pressure, a circular was sent for committees to be set up in schools, but in many cases they have never convened.
Responsibility placed on adults
“We have a responsibility as a society, as a state and as parents. I don’t want to let the children off, but the first who are responsible are the adults,” he said, adding, “First of all we are to blame as parents.”
What responsibility do you think adults should take to prevent violence among children?
