There are more and more teenagers between the ages of 14 and 16 who go around with a knife in their pocket or backpack , "and they always end up using it ". The alarm was raised by Carla Puligheddu , regional guarantor for children and adolescents, in the aftermath of the serious episode in Macomer where a 15-year-old student was injured by a schoolmate .
The phenomenon, underlines the guarantor, «is rampant, and predominantly male. A recent study by the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) highlights the ease of getting hold of knives . And the symbol that the knife represents in youth culture is worrying, when carrying edged weapons guarantees social appreciation."
«It is very worrying – says Puligheddu – that episodes of verbal violence between teenagers in our region, near school buildings, end in blood and in the prosecutor's office. According to research, one in five young men appears to have carried a knife with him to earn recognition from his peers as a "real man" . In fact, most of the time the group influences the individual. Anyone who doesn't conform isn't "manly" enough and risks being excluded. This custom is not an affectation, if we consider that for one young person in three a knife gives a sense of security because it is seen as a valid tool to be able to defend oneself and someone, particularly during evening outings. Hence the escalation. Those who consume more alcohol or drugs during adolescence display deviant behaviors even in adult relationships for which it only takes a moment for the knife to appear. See the feminicides."
Young people «impulsive and violent, incapable of managing emotions. But the argument is always the same: you are not born violent . If these people find owning knives interesting, something didn't work during their growth, in their family of origin, in their emotional relational dynamics . Education plays a key role. More educated young people resort to violence and knives less frequently and are also less likely to become victims. This data is fundamental for prevention-oriented work."
It is therefore necessary, for the guarantor, to " enhance the cultural function that schools play in society" . A school in difficulty, left alone to face serious situations without means, entrusted to the great generosity of the teachers, managers and staff who work there in the daily attempt to educate in non-violence and to prevent recurring very sad tragedies".
(Unioneonline/ss)
