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Originally Posted by alansmithee
Then, you don't understand even the smallest bit about child psychology. Remain ignorant if you like, but don't think that because you don't know something means it doesn't exist. I hope you never have children, I'm sure they would be in for a rough ride.
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As someone who does understand child psychology, and has the diploma to prove it, I agree with shakran. The actions of these children, though symptomatic of larger problems, represent the roots of apathy in the childrens development. Animal abuse is linked to conduct disorder (a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior in which the basic rights of others or major age-appropriate societal norms or rules are violated). Among the symoptoms listed in the DSM IV for CD are "aggression to people and animals" (which includes cruelty to people or to animals).
Knee jerk replies suggesting severe physical punishment from the parents and others ironically would make the problem worse. I remain convinced that the best course of action for these kids would be to talk to a professional about what they did, without the parents in the room.