KARACHI:
Last week, a video made rounds on social media wherein girls from a private school in Lahore could be seen bullying another girl. Many social media users expressed their concern over the violent and aggressive behaviour of bullies. But what is equally alarming is that instead of rescuing the victim, other students presumably boys recorded videos of the incident and can be heard laughing at the situation.
Although there are many reasons underlying deviant behaviours, it is worth recognising that this behaviour often stems from the content children and teenagers consume. Western television shows and films often portray aggression and deviance in a positive light. At times, the underlying messages that discourage violence and abuse are overshadowed by the larger themes of the content. Given the students’ young ages, they fail to realise that these behaviours can cause long-term damage. Similarly, drug consumption is also a recurring theme in many shows and films, which has compelled teenagers to consume drugs to appear trendy and cool.
Besides disciplining children, parents should be vigilant of the content their children watch online. Instead of imposing strict rules on children, parents should create a receptive environment and respond to their children with patience. More importantly, elite schools should not be allowed to get away with these incidents by simply expelling students. They need to accept responsibility and do better in terms of disciplining students. The court must deal with the case seriously and give justice to the victim to remind everyone that power and wealth are not above the law.
Ainee Munir
Lahore
Published in The Express Tribune, January 29th, 2023.
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