As an elementary physical education teacher, I hear students call other students names without really understanding how it affects those targeted. When young children hear things from adults and peers, they imitate, hoping to spark the same reaction that others responded with. It almost seems as though the lack of positive role models and lack of overall restraint have become an actual part of our culture. Very little thought is given before action. Children do not understand why it is important to refrain from hitting others and verbally abusing others.
Adults have the mental capacity to teach children why such acts are incorrect.
The author is correct when he focuses on the households. Family structure is falling apart. There is no one correct way to raise a child. There are those who have nothing and want things that others possess. Then there are those who have every possession, but never feel like they ever really earn respect from their family and peers.