A recent study on youth violence and teen anger shows that the genetic disposition towards violence and delinquent behavior does not tell the whole story. Gene variants for violence can be moderated by environmental factors as simple as having a daily meal with one or both parents.
Teens who have daily meals and interaction with caring adults did not "express" the violent tendencies encrypted in their genes. By the same token, a lack of positive environmental influences in home,school and community amplified the negative effects of the "risky" gene.
The relationship between youth violence and genes lies literally in our hands. We have to the power to intervene and moderate the behavior and tendencies of our children by making sure that we are part of a healthy and positive influence in their lives.
We are have more power than we think we do!
2 comments:
This is very true. I do believe myself that the parents play a crucial role in the character development of their children. That's why many children whose mom stayed home to raise them come out a bit more mature and grounded.
Hmmm. a meal with the child. That's a beautiful way to intervene into a child's life and change it for the better. Bonding and building relationships...just beautiful.
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