I have yet to hear from either of my international contacts so I conducted some research on my own. Spain is one of the countries that I have chosen to research. In my research one surprising fact was the prevalence of children living in poverty. I have always thought of Spain as a "rich" country, but in actuality the unemployment rate is 20%. This leads to alot of family tension due to families living with economic hardships.
I found an interesting report outlining research, conducted by unicef, about childhood poverty in Spain, UK and Sweden. The research teams set up discussion groups in schools of the countries studied. The children in these groups were asked to describ aspects of good days and bad days. The researchers were looking for the affect of poverty on the well-being of children.
What the research showed was that it is not the lack of material possesions that affect the well-being of children but the increase in family tensions due to economic hardships.
The children in all three countries sited the same aspects of good and bad days. Good days consisted of time with family, friends and pets. Bad days were characterized by an upset in stable family time such as: separation, fighting, and substance abuse.
This research leads me to believe that the way to end poverty is a combination of things. Families need to be provided basic needs such as: food, clothing, and shelter. But education is key to helping these families lead successful lives. They need to be educated in how to deal with issues that arise as a result of having a low income. They also need to be educated in the importance of quality time with their children.
I feel that, no matter what country we are talking about, the cycle of poverty will not change until we address the underlying causes.
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ReplyDeleteThe link to the website is http://www.unicef.org.uk/Documents/Publications/IPSOS_UNICEF_ChildWellBeingreport.pdf
ReplyDeleteIt is hard to imagine European Countries experiencing poverty and unemployment. Until we look further all we will see is that picturesque postcard image.
ReplyDeleteOften times parents don't realize the negative impact stress has on children and their ability to learn and thrive. Parent's try to hide or shelter children from the real issues plaguing the family; low wages, unemployment, too much time spent working to make a living, but children are far more in tune than we think. Perhaps a first step is a family dinner; taking time to make and enjoy a meal together.
It is hard to think of an European country having these problems, but its even harder for the United States to have this problem. Before I came to the United States I was told that they were the richest country in the world, so for me to see it where I live is heart breaking. Great Post.
ReplyDeletePatricia,
ReplyDeleteGreat information. Quality time with children and letting them know and see love can make a big difference in children's lives regardless of their situations. We have to remember to express this often with children. Thanks for sharing.