THE EDITOR, Sir:
THE RECENT outpourings of shock and horror by many well known Jamaicans over the issue of sexual activities on buses by school children, is in my estimation a clear example of "locking the gate, after the horse has gone through". Some time ago this very same issue was brought to the fore by one of the daily newspapers.
It is extremely troubling to note that most persons seem to be only concerned by the fact that these acts are being committed by school children on buses, and not by the fact that more and more children are engaging in sexual acts at an early age. The main point of contention seems to be that these children are engaging in sexual acts ON BUSES, and nothing else. The issue being ignored here, is one of changing values. Sex is something which seems to be emphasised to a large extent in Jamaica. The media portrays it in a variety of forms. Children are exposed to sexual content daily, most of which are not positive. Should it then be surprising that these same children should treat sex in a very casual and carefree manner?
Consider the implications when 13 and 14-year-olds are having children, and they proudly talk about a baby as if it is a commodity and not a human being. We should also not ignore those men who think that being involved with a 13- or 14-year-old girl is 'cool'. These men are sexual predators. However, it seems that in Jamaica these men are judged differently, and are viewed by some as being macho.
THE ISSUE OF VALUES
The agents of socialisation should not be underestimated. The family, and moreso the media, need to play a more positive role in the issue of values, and the ways in which these values are promoted in society. The sad truth, however, is that in Jamaica and many other countries SEX SELLS. It seems hypocritical to condemn these children as being promiscuous and immoral, when the main emphasis for many things in Jamaica is sex.
I am, etc.,
STEPHEN HENDERSON
stephen.henderson02@uwimona.edu.jm
Mona, Kingston 6
Via Go-Jamaica
