Research on Children and Violence in the Caribbean
Interventions to Reduce Aggressive Behaviour Among Primary School Children
In an ongoing longitudinal study, we identified risk factors of aggressive behaviour among Jamaican youth. We then designed a pilot study for a randomized control trial on the effects of interventions to adjust these risk factors, in a way that it would be possible to replicate on a wide scale. Four primary schools in Kingston, whose principals and staff had indicated a problem with child violence and aggression, were selected to participate in the interventions. The interventions were based on parent training and teacher workshops of selected children from the four schools. These have now been completed. Outcome measures of parent and teacher practices, and child behaviour and school achievement were collected on baseline and after the interventions were completed. Data analysis is now ongoing. This study was funded by the CHASE Fund and the Caribbean Health Research Council.
Documenting Interpersonal Violence Programmes for Jamaican Children
In collaboration with the Ministry of Health, we carried out a project to gather information on all intervention programmes aimed at reducing violence or promoting rehabilitation among Jamaican children. A large number of programmes have been developed, but there is a lack of documentation, evaluation and dissemination of findings particularly regarding information on the impact programmes have on their intended beneficiaries. The lack of information impedes the progress and sustainability of these programmes as their effectiveness remains undocumented and linkages among those working to reduce violence are not made. Data gathering has completed.
A final report of the information gathered is being prepared. The information will also be recorded in an electronic format to allow for searchability and easy updating. The findings will build on knowledge gained and research done for or byexisting violence prevention/reduction interventions. The findings will also help to identify priority areas for intervention (new areas or those that are not being effectively served by existing programmes). And will build on the rapid assessment which is being done as part of the GOJ/UNICEF Children and Violence Project. This project was funded by UNICEF.
The UN Secretary General’s Report on Violence Against Children: Report for Caribbean Region
The CCDC led the UWI team which was awarded the grant to prepare this report. The Caribbean report will be combined with those from the other regions of the world for the final UN SG’s report. The report included a review of violence against children in the home, family, schools, institutional care, workplaces, in the community and on the streets and also incorporated the views presented at a regional conference held in Chaguaramas, Trinidad. The UWI team was responsible for the working group discussions at this conference. | 
