WRITING TASK 2
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Present a written argument or case to an educated reader with no specialist knowledge.
Write about the following topic:
Recent figures show an increase in violent crime among youngsters under the age of 18. Some psychologists claim that the basic reason for this is that children these days are not getting the social and emotional learning they need from parents and teachers. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Sample Answer:
In recent years, there has been a noticeable rise in violent crime committed by individuals under the age of 18. Some experts attribute this trend to a lack of social and emotional learning from parents and teachers. While I agree that social and emotional learning plays a crucial role in shaping a child’s behavior, I believe that the issue of youth violence is multifaceted and cannot be solely attributed to a lack of support from adults.
First and foremost, it is important to acknowledge that social and emotional learning is indeed essential for children’s development. This type of learning helps individuals understand and manage their emotions, build healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions. Parents and teachers play a pivotal role in imparting these skills to children, and their influence cannot be overstated. However, it is overly simplistic to suggest that the increase in youth violence is solely due to a lack of social and emotional learning from adults.
There are various other factors that contribute to the rise in violent behavior among young people. For instance, exposure to violence in the media and online platforms can desensitize children and desensitize them to violent behavior. Additionally, socioeconomic factors, such as poverty and lack of access to resources, can also contribute to feelings of frustration and hopelessness, which may manifest in violent actions.
Furthermore, mental health issues and trauma experienced by young individuals can also play a significant role in their propensity for violence. Without adequate support and resources for mental health care, some children may struggle to cope with their emotions and resort to violent behavior as a means of expressing their distress.
In conclusion, while social and emotional learning from parents and teachers is undoubtedly important, it is not the sole factor contributing to the increase in youth violence. A comprehensive approach that addresses various societal, environmental, and individual factors is necessary to effectively tackle this issue. It is imperative for policymakers, educators, and parents to work together to provide the necessary support and resources to help young people navigate the challenges they face and prevent them from resorting to violence.
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