The Minors in social or judicial conflict are a group that faces challenges
multidimensional on their way to an integrated and stable life. Their experiences,
Often marked by adverse conditions, they reflect complex realities that
require a deep understanding from professionals working with
they.
In this article we will explore, from a comprehensive perspective, the main factors of
risk that affects them, the consequences they face and the strategies they can
contribute to positive change.
The environment of the minor and its decisive influence
The environment in which children grow up is decisive in the development of their
behaviors and attitudes. The family, school and community act as
key environments in their training, and when any of these fail, the impact can be
devastating. For example, a child who grows up in a broken family, where
lack of communication or even situations of violence prevail, tends to replicate
negative patterns in their interpersonal relationships.
These minors often They develop a worldview where conflict becomes a survival mechanism., which predisposes them to confront social and legal norms.
The school, which should act as a space for protection and learning, in
In many cases it can become a place of exclusion.
He School failure, lack of motivation and bullying are frequent phenomena that marginalize the minor,
reinforcing feelings of worthlessness or frustration. As a result, many
They drop out of school without having acquired the skills necessary to integrate
into the labour market, which perpetuates their vulnerability. The community, for its part,
plays a crucial role, since environments where poverty predominates,
Crime and lack of opportunities create dynamics that push young people
toward problematic behaviors.
The impact of mental health and traumatic experiences
Mental health disorders represent another decisive factor in the life of the
minors in conflict. Many of them have experienced traumatic situations
that leave deep scars, like the domestic violence, abuse or
negligence. These experiences not only alter your ability to relate to others,
others, but also affect their self-esteem and their ability to make decisions.
responsible. Without proper treatment, these emotional wounds can
evolve towards self-destructive behaviors, such as substance use
or participation in criminal activities.
The stigma associated with mental health also exacerbates the problem, as many
Families and communities lack the resources or knowledge to seek help
professional. Instead of receiving the professional support needed, these minors are often
labeled as problematic, which reinforces their social exclusion and limits their
possibilities for redemption.
The consequences of exclusion and conflict
Social exclusion has a direct impact on the lives of these minors. Those who
have been in conflict with the law often face strong rejection from their
communities, making their reintegration difficult even after meeting the
measures imposed. This isolation increases the risk of relapse, since the
Young people seek acceptance in marginal groups that they cannot find in their surroundings
immediate. In turn, this cycle of rejection and recidivism contributes to perpetuating their
contact with the judicial system and the institutions of internment, limiting their
possibilities of building a different life.
In addition, the educational and employment barriers they face are enormous. Many of them
They lack sufficient training to compete in the labor market, and the
The stigma of having been in conflict with the law makes it even more difficult for them to access
opportunities. This creates a sense of hopelessness that can lead them to repeat
criminal patterns, perpetuating the cycle of exclusion and vulnerability.
Towards a comprehensive approach to intervention
To break this cycle, it is necessary to take a comprehensive approach that does not just focus
in the child's behavior, but also addresses the underlying causes that
generate them. The most effective strategies are those that combine intervention
educational, psychosocial support and family strengthening, working in a
coordinated with communities to create more inclusive and protective environments.
In the educational field, It is essential to design programs that not only seek the
school reintegration, but also offer practical alternatives adapted to the
needs and interests of young people. Vocational training workshops, for example,
can provide them with the necessary tools to access the labor market and
build an independent life project.
Psychosocial support is also essential. Minors in conflict need spaces
safe places where they can work on managing their emotions, develop skills
and rebuild their self-esteem. Mentoring programs, where adults
Responsible people act as positive role models, they have proven to be especially
effective in this regard.
Finally, the Family strengthening should be a priority. Many families of
These minors need support to overcome their own difficulties, from resources
economic resources to guidance on parenting skills. Providing this support not only
benefits the child, but also strengthens the environment in which he or she will grow up in the future.
future.
Conclusion: A shared responsibility
Working with minors in conflict is a complex task that requires a commitment
deep by all the actors involved: families, communities,
educational institutions and professionals in the sector. Beyond addressing problematic behaviors, it is essential to look at the roots of the conflict and
work on sustainable solutions that allow these young people to overcome their
circumstances and build a life full of possibilities.
This commitment not only benefits minors, but also society as a whole, since
contributes to reducing exclusion and violence, and promotes more communities
supportive and cohesive. The question we must ask ourselves as professionals is:
How can we be an active part of this change?
