In modern society, violence in schools is rising and playground bullying seems to be

increasing. The issue is whether or not parents should deal with this problem by teaching

their children to fight back. The arguments on both sides of this debate need to be

examined carefully.

Many people believe that violence only breeds further violence. Evidence for this is found

in research which shows that children who grow up in violent families often grow up to be

violent themselves. Furthermore, some children may enjoy the power associated with

violence and develop into bullies. However, there are examples of bullying being stopped

as a result of victims hitting back. This shows that there are occasions when violence

may help to end bullying.

However, looking at the issue in the long term, there is a strong case for supporting

parents who promote anti-violent behaviour. If children can learn that there are other

ways of solving disagreement, then it is possible that when those children become adults

they will behave similarly and try to resolve conflict through discussion and compromise

rather than by force. In my view this is a powerful argument for encouraging a non-

violent approach to school bullies.

Another aspect of this issue is the fact that bullying occurs in school time when parents

are not present. Hence, it could be argued that it is better for schools to deal with this

problem by promoting anti-bullying policies and offering support to victims. Although this

makes practical sense, it ignores the fundamental effect that parents can have on their

children.

In conclusion,

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