Violence in numerous families whereby members assault others, often affect children's social life.

This was disclosed by the Principal Gender Officer, Mrs. 'Mamabaleha Tsikoane when addressing prisoners at the Berea Correctional Services in Teyateyaneng on Wednesday.

Inmates’ briefing on gender issues was part of the 16 Days Activism Against Gender Violence that started on November 25.

Mrs. Tsikoane said some of the children whose parents have a habit of fighting often perform poorly in their studies, noting that violence affects children.

She noted that though every person has rights, such rights should be exercised with responsibility to avoid infringement of other people’s rights.

At the same occasion, Mrs. 'M'asefatela Motseki, a nurse from the Mental Health Division said some people usually engage in alcohol and drug abuse as a means of turning away from their problems, saying that this is not a solution to problems.

She said that all should face their problems and find lasting solution, instead of indulging in the abuse of alcohol and drugs.

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence is expected to end on Monday next week. Since its commencement, the public was briefed on gender issues and actions to take to avoid harassment in all its forms.

The campaign is meant to create public awareness on gender violence, its effects and the steps that members of the public could take to counteract it.

Source: LENA 05/12/2007