Oct :12 The term addiction brings to our mind images of hardcore addicts we often see near bus stands, under flyovers and at railway stations. We seldom associate this term with young school going children from decent families. However the truth is very alarming! Many of these innocent looking children are in the grip of one or the other form of addiction. Addictions not only include physical substances but may also include behavioral addictions like cell phones, shopping, video games, internet and relationships etc.
This very aspect was brought forward in the seminar, held on behavioural addiction by the renowned speakers Dr. V.S. Ravindran educational psychologist and trainer, Mr. Sachin Jain president Bennett University, Dr. R.K.Saraswath professor of guidance and counseling and writer of books on guidance and counseling by the NCERT.
The objective of the National Convention of School Counsellors on “ADDICTION IN SCHOOL CHILDREN-NEW AGE CHALLENGES” which was organized by ICTRC on 26 September, 2018 at the India International Centre, New Delhi was to equip school counsellors/teacher counsellors with the necessary knowledge, skills and attitude to deal effectively with this problem.
Debates about the causes of behavioural addiction are never ending. The major factors includes host, agent and setting in which they live. To neglect any early indicators of behavioural addiction without intervention is to place that child and others are at great risk of harm. School counsellors and teachers have to play a very crucial role in planning and implementing such interventions.
Education as an important instrument can create a unique personality, so has to go hand in hand with the behavioural science. If temperaments and attention of a child will be managed then wonders can be done. A special emphasis on the parent’s awareness and education was also brought forward.
It was an opportunity, entrusted to me, which has been too positive and creative for the students as well as my personal growth. I look forward, to create an ambiance for the school and students, to bring forth the best in both.
I wish to extend my gratitude to the principal Sr. Ophelia Lobo and other authorities for obliging me with this entrustment to grow further and strengthen my skills.
Mrs. Vandana Vohra
St. Theresa’s Convent School, Karnal
