Ronald Goldman, Ph.D., Director of the Early Trauma Prevention Center, (ronaldgoldmanphd.com) spoke at a conference on Violence Against Women on Nov. 9 at Lesley University, 1815 Massachusetts Ave. University Hall.

Violence Against Women: Unrecognized Prevention Opportunities

Our society’s response to violence against women tends to focus on treating symptoms like improving security and punishing offenders while avoiding causes and prevention. Other usual responses are self-...defense training, discussing gun control and violent media, and legislation. These measures are important, but they do not address the origins of the problem. What part of the problem lies with the environment and what part lies with the violent individual? Are violent people born or made? Do events that occur before we can remember matter? Is human nature compatible with society? This presentation explores these questions, society’s attitude toward human nature, and implications for individual and social development. It challenges cultural beliefs about children and explores early environmental influences that are associated with later violent behavior. Participants will learn how these beliefs and practices are perpetuated and ideas for advocating change. Using what is known from animal and infant experiments, brain development studies, amazing anecdotes of infant behavior, and other cultures, this presentation identifies generally unrecognized important factors connected with violence. It also describes social customs and values associated with violent and peaceful cultures, including specific principles that can contribute to peace and happiness among family, friends, and the world.