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Peer violence finally came into focus

In the first nine months of this year, the police has recorded 51 case of peer violence. Spokeswoman of the Ministry of education, Milica Lekić, says that this is the problem in many societies and depends on so many factors.

As she says, Ministry of Education, has no tolerance at all for violence, but it ie essential that every institution has the same attitude. In that context, project Coalition against peer violence is very important.

“This project will emphasize mechanisms for the prevention of peer violence, as well as services offered to students. Local policies and social services for the victims and perpetrators of peer violence will be improved. In addition, children and parents will be more familiar with the consequences of peer violence”, says Lekić.

Psychologist Andrijana Pejaković says that every parent must talk to their child of they think that he/she might be a victim of violence.

“Children often think that it’s their fault and sometimes they tend to feel shame, embarrassment, guilt or confusion. Therefore, children either don’t recognize violence or they are afraid to tell somebody”, said Pejaković.

If the parents notice that their child is scared, introverted, refuses to go to school or has nightmares, these might be alarming signs. Protection and support are the most important things in such cases, and they must be given unconditionally.

Parents Association signed a Memorandum of cooperation with the Ministry of Interior. One of the suggestions to be considered is that protectors should be employed in schools. They would help in the prevention of violence and intervene if it happens. Children would feel much safer that way.

Peer violence is a lesson that is never forgotten but no child ever should learn it.

 

 

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