I have read with care and concern the numerous writings on the horrific Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre. Most have advocated for a ban on assault weapons or increased services for the mentally ill. The pervasive culture of violence has only been touched upon. I think any real difference lies in an approach that swiftly and continuously addresses all of the above.
This generation has been raised by television, movies and music that glamorize violence and have been baby-sat by a steady stream of violent video games.
In my 30 years as a school social worker, it is routine for children as young as 6 to tell me that they have been inside their homes all night or weekend playing violent video games. It is obvious they have become desensitized to the mass killings in these "games." They also think the drama leading to fights in reality TV is the norm.
I was speaking with a student who, with pride in his voice, told me he had determined how to "win" at one such game. I will never forget his chilling words:
"I figured out that, in my game, if I just kill the prostitute, I won't have to pay her."
He was 9 years old.
So goes street shootings, guns pulled on police officers, Columbine, the movie theater assault, Sandy Hook and so on until parents and community stakeholders realize the profound effect these songs, movies, TV shows and video games have on impressionable children who are developmentally unable to discern fantasy from reality.
The time for a ban on assault weaponry has come, and services for mentally ill children and adults must be accessible, improved and expanded. Integral in the conversation, however, is to continue to educate parents on the poisonous nature of what molds their children each day.
All of the above must swiftly be addressed to have any hope of preventing future heartache.
DONNA COONLEY-HOTALING
Albany