Dr Gerald Katzman
Wayne State University School of Medicine, USA
Title: The bioethics and neuropsychology of children learning to hate or help and pursue violent or non-violent resolution of conflict
Biography
Biography: Dr Gerald Katzman
Abstract
Learned hatred in childhood leads to violent speech and subsequent violent actions. The process often begins with authoritarian parenting. The fear and anger evoked by such treatment is projected onto socially endorsed targets. These targets are developed through false narratives that are repeatedly espoused in authoritarian societies. The resultant violent actions are further facilitated by the stifling of emotional empathy that results from coercion and intimidation. Authoritative parenting characterized by discipline through reasoning offers a healthy alternative. The trust that develops between parent and child can be used to model caring behaviors inside and outside the family. Sharing stories with a moral and that teach a lesson promote the incorporation of virtues and the avoidance of vices. The emotional empathy that results is the catalyst for acts of compassion. Resistance to adverse influences and promotion of initiatives that support tolerance and appreciation of individual differences are more likely when parents and societies key in on enhancing the moral development of children. Restricting moral development through a planned program of indoctrination to militancy is mental maltreatment. By exposure of children to an atmosphere where reason has been emphasized over might, non-violent resolution of conflict is an attainable result.