SEHGAL, Rima (Bal Bharti Public School) 

Increasing number of youngsters from middle and upper socioeconomic families are getting involved in violence and crime. Changing social structure, nuclear families, absence of elders and media direct a child towards stronger peer group affiliation. This group belongingness allows them to override inhibitions and diminish any feeling of guilt. Violence becomes a part of life with more and more youngsters indulging in antisocial behaviours. Hence, there is strong need for research and work in prevention and treatment of the disorder. Presence of a counsellor in a school can help in catching them young and providing required support and help. Measures like awareness programmes for effective parenting and anger control training appear promising.