A violent country or an angry country?

THE EDITOR: Let us stop for a moment and reflect on the possible sources of violent activities within our beloved country.

I do not concur with the sentiment that our country is too violent but rather hold firm to the position that our people are overwhelmed with anger.

Violence is at the end of the spectrum as an extreme form of aggression. On the other hand, anger is an emotion or feeling which, if not well managed, can trigger aggression in terms of propelling anger into action.

Although the Commissioner of Police is actively initiating gruelling exercises to control and reduce the incidence of violence, it is not enough. These exercises address the symptoms of an angry society and not the genesis of the abnormal behaviour.

In order to reduce the level of violence it is therefore logical to “burn the candle at both ends.” In other words, while the police are dealing with the symptoms or end products of the problem, there must be emphasis on the sources in a simultaneous manner.

Stop again for a moment and reflect on occasions when you witnessed anger which led to acts of violence. Consider reactions to motorists who indiscriminately block the access to private driveways, road rage, brawls at bars where alcoholic beverages are served, and other distinguishable situations.

A careful review of these occurrences should produce a link from the incidents to episodes of anger with the propensity to become aggression. There is also another dimension of deep-seated anger hidden in the subconscious mind which can become explosive at any point in time, with or without provocation, which may be described as a volatile entangled web behind a facade.

Although anger can be a healthy emotion if managed effectively, it is the destructive use, demonstrated through murders, attempted murders and other forms of violence, which is of major concern.

To approach a resolution to harness that negative energy through a transformative process into constructive energy, a multi-pronged approach which simultaneously focuses on the sources and symptoms is essential.

There is need for an amalgamation of minds, critical and creative thinkers, to meticulously design appropriate programmes to complement the work of the police. These programmes should not be restricted to areas which are described as hot spots since statistics reveal that violence is widespread, therefore anger fits the same parameter.

JOAN HARRISON via e-mail