The Editor, Sir:

Children can be raised in a stable household and still make ludicrous choices throughout their life. I have experienced kids that have come from privileged backgrounds, went to the best schools, actively engaged in sports, participated in social activities, travelled the world and still chose to abuse drugs and alcohol.

There also have been situations where teens were raised in a non-violent household, and surprisingly, later in life displayed violent tendencies. So focusing on the parents is absolutely preposterous. How could they prove that bad parenting led to violent behaviour?

We need to focus on prevention programmes such as ad campaigns and education programmes. Mr. Holness and National Parent Teachers' Association of Jamaica should design a programme that provides children with positive role models and educational programmes that teach non-violent problem-solving. Adults and children need to unite to solve this problem.

I am, etc.,

KELLY

klevy2@hotmail.com

Jefferson City, MO

Via Go-Jamaica