A child is not born a criminal. Every child is born innocent - a blank page waiting to be written upon. Family, society, school, friends, economic status, and the media all play vital roles in a child's growth. From these influences, both the good and bad qualities of a child develop. Thus, the environment is closely linked to the overall development of a child.
A child's first medium of learning is the family. He learns by observing the good and bad behaviour of the people around him and tries to apply what he sees. Often, it is found that parents themselves are involved in various crimes or are indifferent to their children. As a result, the child becomes mentally disturbed and loses the ability to distinguish between right and wrong. Sometimes, poverty leads a child towards crime. When he is deprived of food, clothing, education, and security, committing crime may seem to him the only way out.
In addition, the social environment plays a major role in shaping a child's character. If a society is rife with corruption, violence, and crime, and if criminals prosper without punishment, then a child grows up believing that one can succeed even through wrongdoing.
Peer influence also has a strong impact. Adolescence is a period of imitation. If friends are addicted to drugs, the child is likely to be influenced. Sometimes, peers say, "Let's have some fun," and engage in theft or vandalism - and gradually, such acts become habitual. Children are also neglected in educational institutions at times. Teachers may impose harsh punishments without considering a child's mental state, causing the child to lose confidence. In the present era, many children become involved in crimes through social media. Exposure to violent games, arson, or car theft can arouse a desire to imitate such acts.
Loving a child, giving time, listening, understanding their problems, and helping them are essential. If parents behave like friends, children are less likely to take the wrong path. Schools and communities should provide counselling, and education should focus not only on academics but also on morality and humanity. Increasing child-friendly content on television, cinema, and online platforms like YouTube is equally important. Moreover, rehabilitation - not punishment - should be prioritised for children prone to crime, so they can grow up mentally healthy and well.
Akash Ahmed
Student of the Dept. of Law
Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP)