Religion said to reduce violent activities in children

By Lelethu Mquqo
18 November 2010

Crime experts say children that are exposed to any form of religion in their home environment are less likely to be involved in violent crimes later in their lives.

Christiaan Bezuidenhout, a professor of criminology at the University of Pretoria, says all forms of religion have an effect on reducing violent tendencies.

Bezuidenhout’s comments follow a report on violent crime in South Africa, which was released by the Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation last week.

She says children should be encouraged to take part in religious activities especially at a young age.