More than Words: The Impact of Disrespectful Language
The article below comes from SchoolTV and is written around the prevalence of the disrespectful language that our children are exposed to through online gaming and social media platforms. It aims to enlighten parents to this issue and the negative impact the use of such language has on relationships. There is a link to a video at the end where Dr Michael Carr-Gregg goes into further detail about the importance of respectful language in our schools and homes. We hope you learn a lot about this issue and are able to use the tips and advice with your own children.
A Special Report: Respectful Language
In today’s world, it is common to hear socially offensive language on the streets, on social media channels, streaming services and in some forms of modern music. While swearing is becoming more common and less taboo, the use of derogatory language or the act of swearing at someone, or about someone, is a form of verbal violence. It transgresses the usual rules of social interaction by impinging on an individual’s self-image and sense of dignity.
It is becoming apparent that some young people are being influenced by the language they hear. Proliferating the use of swear words can sometimes normalise, glamorise and desensitise their impact for kids who may misunderstand the true meaning of some derogatory terms. Whilst some students may use swearing or derogatory terms as a misguided attempt at belonging, others may use it simply because they are still learning how to moderate their language and are not accustomed to making adjustments to suit different situations.
When it comes to swearing and derogatory language, parents need to also play an important part in enforcing this approach to help support the stance taken at school. Parents and carers can be proactive in monitoring what their children are viewing or being exposed to. Discussing the use of words or the origin of some derogatory terms and gaining insight into the reason behind their child’s use of such language can help prevent inappropriate or disrespectful language filtering into the classroom, the playground and online interactions. This in turn helps to build more tolerant, safe and connected communities.
This Special Report offers a number of guidelines to help manage a suitable approach when discussing the importance of respectful language.
We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this Special Report, and as always, we welcome your feedback.
God bless,
Mr Luke Przydacz
Deputy Head of Junior School – Wellbeing
