^{Designed in Canva}

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What are some factors that might contribute to the increased levels of violence among our youth and adolescents?

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The increasing levels of violence among our youth and adolescents is a serious issue that needs to be addressed. The minute I saw the theme of this contest, I knew I had to take part. Some people might blame violent video games and movies for this problem—which is partly true— the issue actually stems from multiple factors that are turning our kids into angrier, more aggressive beings.

One of the factors is the lack of proper guidance both at home and in schools. Nowadays, many parents don’t give enough attention to their kids and don’t really know what’s going on in their lives. As a result, kids feel lonely and start making their own choices, often choosing the wrong way. Schools are also failing; teachers only focus on academics, ignoring moral education. This makes it hard for children to know what’s right and what’s wrong.

Another factor is the excessive use of the internet and mobile phones. Kids can easily access violent content online and join the wrong groups on social media, who influence them to do harmful things. Video games, especially those rated 18+, also affect their mindset.

If we talk about the growing extremism among the youth, when a young person sees extreme poverty and helplessness around them, it affects their mind. They start thinking, “Why am I so poor even when I work hard? My parents are also struggling, and I see no hope for my future.” This leads them to steal and rob. And this is not just theoretical; we’re seeing a rise in crime rates in our country due to inflation and poverty.

In some cases, people attack others based on sectarian or religious biases. It’s disgusting and only serves to split society. Unfortunately, some individuals, due to their misguided beliefs, mistreat others based on their faith or ethnicity.

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Can you suggest two strategies that could be implemented to improve this situation or behavior?

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Addressing this kind of situation will require multiple strategies, but in line with the question, I'll share two that I find particularly effective.

Firstly, the government needs to focus on education and job opportunities. If every child receives a good education and secure employment, they’re less likely to engage in criminal behavior. Technical training should be provided to the underprivileged to enhance their skills. Facilities like libraries, parks, and sports centres should be established to engage the youth in productive activities.

Secondly, we need to reduce societal and religious misunderstandings. There should be a strong sense of love and brotherhood in every home and community. Religious leaders should preach messages of unity rather than division. This way, people will be more inclined to collaborate rather than fight.

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Why does it seem that today’s society is more indifferent to the suffering of others? Could you provide some possible explanations? Have you ever had the opportunity to assist others?

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One of the main reasons why society nowadays seems increasingly indifferent to others’ suffering is that everyone is so busy with their own lives they don’t have time to care for others. There’s also a growing sense of materialism and narcissism. We used to have large families who looked out for each other; now we have nuclear families that only care about themselves.

In response to your second question, I would like to say that yes, I have had the opportunity to help people many times. I have provided assistance both physically and financially as much as possible. Just last week, I was home alone and preparing a post for Steemit. Both my parents were at work and my siblings were at school.

It was around 9 in the morning. During this time, there was a knock at the door. I got up to answer it and found a woman standing outside, her eyes reflecting desperation and helplessness. She told me she urgently needed money.

I went back inside, took out 100PKR from my wallet, and gave it to her. She told me her son had been in an accident and was admitted to a government hospital in another city. Although most of the treatment is free in government hospitals, she didn’t have the money for the fare to travel to the other city. Her voice was filled with so much pain that I couldn’t bear it.

I went back inside again and gave her a 1000PKR note. As soon as she received the 1000PKR note, tears welled up in her eyes. She couldn’t hold them back and started blessing me profusely. She tried to return the 100PKR that I initially gave her; but I refused to take it.

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Could you enumerate some of the principles that were imparted to you or that you instill in your own family?

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My parents have always taught me good values and principles. One of the most important is to have complete faith in God. My father always says to respect everyone, regardless of their religion or ethnicity. Hard work leads to success is another mantra he swears by. My mother taught me patience and gratitude, instructing me to always count my blessings in good times and bad. They also instilled in me the importance of always speaking the truth; lying is dishonest and sinful. I try my best to follow these teachings and encourage others to do the same.

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I trust that you enjoyed reading my article. 😊

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^{I would like to invite @chasad75, @inspiracion, @senehasa, @paholags, @dove11, @josevas217, @irawandedy, @weisser-rabe, @malikusman1 and @patjewell to join this contest through this link, if they have not already taken part in it.}

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^{Author: @waqarahmadshah | Date: 12-Sep-2023 | Achievement 1}