The problem of violent behavior among young people is complex and rooted in our patriarchal culture, which often promotes harmful gender stereotypes, the Safe Women's House announced.
According to them, Montenegro is faced with, as they say, terrifying news about violence among children and young people.
"Numerous cases of physical attacks, harassment and intimidation have been reported, with many young people facing unbearable situations that threaten their safety and mental health," said the Safe Women's House.
The increase in violence, they say, has reached a point where it can no longer be ignored and, they believe, urgent action by all sectors of society is needed.
"Alarming situations such as brutal beatings, bringing 'wedding' guns, pepper spray and cold weapons to school, intimidation, harassment, violent communication and other forms of physical and psychological violence among peers are becoming more and more frequent, leaving lasting consequences on the lives of young people and families who are trying to deal with this growing problem," they explained.
According to them, boys are taught that aggressiveness, dominance over others and suppression of emotions are the desirable qualities of men, while girls, they believe, are expected to be submissive and passive.
They add that psychological abuse is often the first step that later leads to physical abuse.
"Although it is harder for parents and teachers to notice and less often to sanction, psychological violence is insidious, and the effects can be long-lasting and devastating," said the Safe Women's House.
Psychological abuse, they said, can take many forms, including verbal attacks, insults, manipulation, isolation and intimidation.
"It is often used as a way to impose power and control over someone else. We need to learn to recognize it, sanction it and prevent it from escalating. This requires a comprehensive approach that includes education, prevention and adequate punitive measures," they said.
One of the biggest challenges in dealing with psychological abuse, they say, is the tendency to turn a blind eye to it, or dismiss it as harmless teasing or "it's just boys".
"It is our responsibility as a society to teach boys and young men that respect, empathy and non-violent communication are essential values and that violence will not be tolerated and that bullies will be held accountable for their actions," stated the Safe Women's House.
Also, as they say, it is crucial that victims of abuse are provided with timely help and support.
"It is not enough to just condemn violence. Decision-makers and authorities in institutions must put the safety of children, youth and women as a top priority, taking concrete measures to prevent violence and ensure that the perpetrators are held accountable," they said.
They add that this includes the revision of existing laws and policies, as well as the implementation of new strategies that deal with the specific needs of vulnerable groups.
The Safe Women's House implements the project "Cuš, psychological violence, what do you mean?", which is financed by the Ministry of Human and Minority Rights.
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