The Editor, Sir:

I have been reading numerous articles and news stories relating to the vile attacks on the nation's children. As a social worker and humanitarian, I feel compelled to comment. I am a strong advocate for both sides of this dilemma, the children and the perpetrators as well.

Now, many may be appalled by my display of empathy towards the latter. Truth is, to effectively address this social dilemma, we have to understand the underlying pathological disorder. The act of violence against children, in this form, is not in an individual's control, though, in many instances, it may appear calculated.

I have been living in the United States for the last 25 years and have been working as a professional social worker for the last 15. My professional experience has raised my awareness to the fact that many of us in the Caribbean look upon mental illness as a shame and, therefore, often do not seek the necessary help.

The violence we are witnessing against children stems from a severe mental disorder which can inflict anyone. Child predators are among us and even closer than we can ever imagine. They are teachers, close relatives, coaches, clergy, prominent community members, neighbours, etc.

In efforts to address this, we must erase the stigma and labels attached to mental-health issues and normalise psychiatry as an intervention, as is seeking medical care.

Safe spaces

The other step is to have open conversations with our children while creating safe spaces for them to express when adults make them feel unsafe or uncomfortable. In addition, provide training to educators, parents and any other significant caretakers to detect if children are experiencing any unusual emotional trauma. I am not sure if this is in place but, if not, Jamaica should establish a child welfare agency to address these issues more broadly.

The protection and safety of the child is first and foremost, and, to continually ensure this, we have to address these issues from the root causes by treating such acts of violence against children as the disease/disorder they really are. To ostracise and castigate will only drive folks into secrecy and, thus, continue to perpetuate this form of violence. Hence lies my rationale for empathy on both sides.

I am, etc.,

CAROLYN STRUDWICK

cstrudy@hotmail.com