By Karen James
In an effort to combat the rising issue of cultism among young people, the Anambra State Police Command has provided parents and guardians with tips to recognize cautionary signs in the behavior of their children.
Recognizing warning behavior is key to understanding and guiding our children, and the police command has highlighted some attitudes and behaviors that are seen as red flags. These signs include sudden changes in personality, such as a person who is known to be extroverted suddenly becoming introverted, or vice versa.
Another warning sign is when children start asking questions or engaging in conversations with people, seeking validation or justification for gangs or groups. This behavior can indicate a potential inclination towards joining a cult.
Parents should also be on the lookout for sudden fear and fascination with weapons, as well as a sudden urge to seek justice through self-help and making open or subtle threats about avenging a rift. This could be an indication of involvement in cult activities.
Resorting to drug and alcohol use to get high, numb pain, or succumbing to peer pressure is another warning sign that parents should be aware of. Alongside this, if your child is suddenly staying away from home for days and staying out late at night, it may be cause for concern.
Parents should also take note if their child is always on a call for a longer time than necessary or constantly surfing the internet for ways to cause harm to others. These behaviors suggest a potential involvement in cult activities.
Furthermore, parents should be concerned if their child becomes overly interested in a group of friends, especially if they have specific identification markers such as color, handshakes, and hanging out together. This kind of group identification is often associated with cult involvement.
The Anambra State Police Command is dedicated to maintaining a peaceful and secure environment for the residents of the state. Through their advocacy platform, Police Campaign Against Cultism & Other Vices (POCACOV), they are working tirelessly to combat crime and raise awareness about the dangers of cultism.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to be vigilant and report any suspicious behavior to the appropriate authorities. By recognizing these cautionary signs and taking appropriate action, we can protect our children from the dangers of cultism and ensure a brighter future for them.