From Allafrica · · 1m 20s
Childhood Trauma Shapes Violence in South Africa
South Africa's Plant Play program helps children overcome trauma to reduce violence.
In brief
South Africa's Plant Play program helps children overcome trauma to reduce violence. South Africa's Plant Play program improves emotional regulation in 542 children to prevent violence. Originally reported by Allafrica.
Childhood Trauma Shapes Violence
Childhood trauma can shape behaviour and fuel violence in South Africa.
Plant Play Reaches 542 Children
Plant Play has reached 542 children aged 10-15 in Diepsloot, Gauteng.
Gender-Based Violence Hotspots
Diepsloot is one of 30 gender-based violent hotspot areas in South Africa.
Trauma's Impact on Development
Childhood trauma disrupts cognitive and social-emotional development.
Stigma of Mental Health
Mental health stigma discourages children from seeking help for fear of being seen as less normal.
Plant Play Program
Plant Play uses environmental education through flower care to help children explore feelings.
Circle Conversations
Children share experiences in 'circle' groups to build emotional understanding.
Child Testimonials
A 14-year-old boy explains poverty's impact on his decision to not steal bread.
Rape and Normalization
A boy describes how rape is normalized in communities.
“It just becomes one of those cases. Even when someone says: 'I was raped', people would point her out in public and say, ah, it's that one. She is only 13 and exposed to such things. I don't think that should be normal. Even when someone gets killed. The problem is normalising things that shouldn't be normal.”
Emotional Regulation Results
Over 14 weeks, 73% of children reported feeling calmer and better able to regulate emotions.
Violence Prevention Impact
Plant Play reduces aggression and prevents violence among young people.
Here's the gist
South Africa's Plant Play program improves emotional regulation in 542 children to prevent violence.
