Dear Counsellor:

I am perturbed about the level of violence in school. I have a son and am very concerned about what is happening in schools.

- Carol

Dear Carol:

It is frightening having to deal with school violence. There are many factors that have contributed to violence and we will need to tackle all factors.

One factor is the level of illiteracy among some students which affects their ability to talk through disputes. Many students live in communities where lawlessness abounds. Students often pattern adults and so we will have to deal with errant adult behaviour as well. We will, therefore, need to train students and parents to express their feelings without using violence. We need to deal with non-readers in the school system.

Employment needs to be provided for both adults and the students. Part-time jobs will enable students to hone a positive work ethic. Another benefit is that they will be occupied, and we know about the possibilities of 'the devil finding work for idle hands'. It is also beneficial for students to be involved in extra-curricular activities.

Spiritual values need to be taught to the students. Nowadays, Christian values are not reinforced in many schools and not even at home. Christian values are quite helpful and are vital for the survival of society. Belief in God has mental and other benefits, including the attainment of coping strategies.

Dear Counsellor:

My daughter is passing urine in her bed at nights. She has never been dry since birth. The frequency of bed-wetting has declined but I am concerned. My daughter is eight years old.

- Marie

Dear Marie:

Bed-wetting is a common condition and children usually outgrow this problem. Bed-wetting runs in families and usually the parents had episodes of bed-wetting when they were children. Many children who wet the bed at night suffer from low self-esteem and depression. They are demoralised by their condition.

Your daughter needs to see a doctor so he can determine the cause of the bed-wetting. Bed-wetting can be caused by physical or developmental problems.

Some doctors recommend bladder-training exercises in the days and fluid restriction at night. Please allow your daughter to pass urine before going to bed. Also, wake her about two to three hours after falling asleep to pass urine in the bathroom. Be reassured that after seeing the doctor, you will be more informed about managing the problem. Remember that majority of children outgrow the problem.

Email questions to Dr Yvonnie Bailey-Davidson at yvonniebd@hotmail.com or call her at 978-8602.