Scotland’s intolerance towards children has been uncovered by a poll that reveals that almost half the population think all young people are dangerous and behave like animals.
A survey commissioned by Barnardo’s has shown society casually condemns all children, despite the fact that just over 1% of young people in Scotland commit crime.
YouGov quizzed more than 2,000 adults and its findings show Scots have negative views of all children, with nearly half the population (43%) thinking they are starting to behave like animals.
The findings show:
Just under half (41%) of Scots agree that children are increasingly a danger to each other and adults.
More than a third (36%) agree something has to be done to protect us from children.
Just over a quarter (28%) agree it feels as if the streets are infested with children.
42% agree that people refer to children as feral because they behave that way.
And 40% disagree with the statement that children who get into trouble are often misunderstood and need help.
Martin Crewe, director of Barnardo’s Scotland, says the nation’s demonising attitude towards young people is a major part of the problem.
“The fact that just under half of Scots refer to children as feral means we still need to change public perception and recognise that most young people aren’t unruly and criminal,” he said,
“Most make a positive contribution to society.
“It is appalling that words like animal, feral and vermin are used daily in reference to children and that they represent some people’s view of all children.
“The Scottish public over-estimates the amount of crime committed by young people. The real crime is that this sort of talk and attitude does nothing to help those young people who are difficult, unruly or badly behaved to change their ways.”
The charity has launched a report on the back of the findings that it says demonstrates children who cause trouble are often those in need of most support.
The Breaking the Cycle report claims that children who become involved in criminal activity come from the most deprived families, have the poorest education experiences and are more likely to suffer from poor health.
Mr Crewe added: “The vast majority of children are decent, enthusiastic, caring and conscientious. It is only the minority who are not, and those who do start down the path of bad behaviour can be helped to change direction.
“Simply expelling them from school or locking them up does nothing to help them mend their ways.”
Barnardo’s aims to tackle negative perceptions of children with its first major TV advertisement, which will air a week today.
Margaret Smith MSP, Liberal Democrat spokeswoman for children, urged Scots last night to stop demonising young people.
She said: “These statistics are alarming. Yes, some young people are responsible for antisocial behaviour and crime, but certainly not as many as this poll suggests.
“It’s worth remembering that the main reason for children being referred to children’s hearings is their own protection. Also, in many local authority areas, Asbos are used more to deal with anti-social neighbours than to control young people.
“This trend of demonising young people must end. There should be real support for those young people whose antisocial behaviour is a cry for help. That is how we will cut crime and protect communities.”