OP-ED | ‘We are not born bad, we are shaped’ — How childhood trauma shapes violence

Two years of Plant Play, a psychosocial program by Human Nature Africa, have reached 542 children aged 10 to 15 in Diepsloot, Gauteng, one of South Africa's 30 gender-based violence hotspots. The program uses environmental education through the care of a non-food flower to help children explore their feelings and build self-identity.

Identified perpetrators tell us who, but not why. Addressing the "why" compels us to focus on children's formative years when their sense of self and social skills are developing. Chronic stress and fear from repeated exposure to violence, abuse, and crime disrupt cognitive and social-emotional growth, affecting judgement, impulse control, and the ability to understand consequences.

Unresolved trauma can lead to violence, disengagement, self-harm, or harm to others in adulthood. Despite available support, seeking it often means being associated with negative labels, discouraging people from seeking help due to fear of stigma. A simple flower, a key component of Plant Play, offers a safe space for children to express emotions, build confidence, and recognize their capacity to care and connect.

Preliminary results from the 2025 Plant Play pilot showed improved emotional regulation, coping skills, empathy, patience, responsibility, and constructive responses to setbacks among 256 participants over 14 weeks. Emotional self-regulation gains doubled from 35% to 73%, offering a significant opportunity for case identification, referral to support, and potential prevention of aggression and violence.