Avia Collinder, Gleaner Writer

POSITIVE Parenting

Dr Gillian Lowe, child psychologist attached to the University Hospital of the West Indies and the Ministry of Health, says that parents should monitor children's activities to limit the likelihood of the transfer of negative values.

Good parenting involves knowing what one's child is listening and watching, she says. Lowe states that parents should also explain to their children why they prefer certain music genres and lyrics to others.

"You want to get them to understand. Sit and explain why the song is not appropriate and some of the ill-effects of being exposed," she says.

The psychologist advises that parents should also establish a system of consequences if children reindulge.

"This goes not just for dancehall music, but anything at all. Good parenting requires rules, explaining why and consequences," Lowe notes.

Well-known musicologist from St James Dr Winsome Miller-Rowe, who has written extensively on the impact of music on physical and mental health, states that schools will have to take a proactive role in reducing the negative effects of dancehall music.

"We need to educate the children by introducing music appreciation that includes knowledge of the power of music and the effects it has on the body and mind ... .

Miller-Rowe also encourages artistes to focus on songs with positive messages for society.

"The more we sing about negative things, the more we get of negative things. It is necessary to be for peace and love than to be against hate and crime. We need to concentrate on the positive aspects of life."