- Annemarie
Dear Annemarie,
Child abuse is very prevalent in Jamaica. There are various types of abuse - physical, sexual, verbal, emotional, neglect and abandonment. This causes children to grow up with the idea that what happened to them is normal and so they behave in the same manner.
In general, adults deal with each other in the same abusive manner. The level of violence is caused by several factors: the level of abuse between individuals, the poor academic performance of some children and the lack of Christian values and morals in society. We need to recognise that some children will not do well academically because of inherent problems. We, therefore, need to have a vocational stream for students who are at the lower end of the spectrum.
Students who are poor performers are susceptible to abuse by others because they are not bright. They, therefore, have self-esteem and self-image problems and retaliate against the society.
Parenting skills need to be taught in the personal development classes in school so that students have an understanding of parenting. Also, social skills training and communication should also be taught. Parent-teacher associations should organise parenting education and social skills training classes for parents and community members.
Individuals need to be taught the appropriate ways to speak to others and to have their needs met. Too often individuals use expletives, name-calling, derogatory words and abusive language in their communication with others.
Adults are role models for the students and so the students sometimes follow the poor examples around them. It therefore means that adults need to behave appropriately.
Child abuse is an offence and so individuals who witness or are aware of child abuse should report the matter to the police and the Child Development Agency.
Budgetary belt tightening
Dear counsellor,
I am having financial problems. My salary cannot deal with the level of expenditure that is required. Each day, there are price increases and the bills keep coming. I used to do odd jobs but these are now non-existent. Any advice?
- Marlon
Dear Marlon,
Trying to make ends meet will always be a challenge as the level of inflation will always outpace our salary. We tell people to live within their means, but this is not practical. When one makes a monthly budget, one realises that some increases are beyond consumers' control.
In budgeting, you need to look at income and expenditure. As the saying goes, 'You have to tighten your belt'. Cut down on your expenses. Limit your expenditure to the basic items. Reduce your entertainment cost and your utility bills. Turn off lights that are not being used and let everyone watch the same television. Turn off the television before you go to bed. Avoid falling asleep with the television on. Use fluorescent light bulbs and iron once weekly. Reduce your food bill by shopping wholesale and reduce the amount of food that you eat.
Identify the unnecessary expenses and cut them out. We like to spend freely, but remember that money goes very quickly. You can treat yourself monthly, but don't overspend.
If you have children, you need to realise that it is an investment to take good care of your children. Additional income is always good. You may need to investigate the various business solutions and see which one works for you. Work out a payment plan with your creditors and try to stick to it.
Remember that finances will always be a challenge. Pray to God to provide for you and believe that He will take care.
Call Dr Yvonnie Bailey-Davidson at 978-8602 or 791-1778; or email yvonniebd@hotmail.com.
