Although we must accept conflict as a natural and inevitable part of living, we need not accept violence as a natural response to conflict. Conflict management techniques can turn conflict into a learning opportunity. The following excerpt was taken from The New York Times and emphasizes the importance of teaching all children conflict management skills. Violence is learned, and we can teach children alternatives.
Interventions work best if they are started early.
The longer you wait, the harder it is to change. The commission recommended efforts aimed at the family, the classroom, the community and the media. Children who are already aggressive can benefit from special tutoring along these lines.