Like domestic violence, the belief by some women that they are lesser mortals and cannot face the world without having a boyfriend, is not unique to T&T. But we have to admit that Trinbagonian women appear particularly susceptible.
Having a child is also another badge of honour that is no big thing if the father is employed and “passing the change.”
Some even believe that having more than one child with more than one man will keep them well dressed and allow the mother and children to be the envy of their peers. In this scenario, in creeps the possibility that their children might be the victims of errant boyfriends and generous “uncles.”
There are indeed several happy relationships with responsible men who really do manage these affairs conscientiously, loyally and lovingly. These are the lucky mothers and children.
The analysts, the child psychologists, the social workers and horrified members of the public will have much to say about the evidence of child abuse that is now out there in the media.
Let us not ignore the fact that child abuse and domestic violence also occur in the upper echelons of society. It is not only the financially-challenged women who display reckless behaviour.
The “I must have a boyfriend syndrome” is alive and well in all ethnicities and social strata. Let us not throw stones only into the “poor people” corner. Now that everybody must have an expensive cell phone that takes photos, we have become more aware of the risky behaviours among teenagers and adults in T&T.
Education, in all its manifestations, must start with the Early Childhood Centres and at primary school level. A good, well-rounded education teaches each child the basics of self esteem and self preservation.
Lynette Joseph