The Evil that Kids Do
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About the Book
The Evil that Kids Do is a book written by psychologist Michael Sefton about childhood violence and its underpinnings. It offers a clinician´s view of aberrant childhood behavior along with specific recommendations for change. It is written in 3 parts: taking the reader from the theoretical, to specific issues, like divorce and abuse,to the practical issues, like mentors, and parent-school partnership - known to head off violence before it can fester.
WHITTIER REHABILITATION PRACTITIONER FEATURED ON LOCAL HEALTH SHOW
July 11, 2005
Westborough, MA: Whittier Rehabilitation Hospital in Westborough announced today that one of its medical staff members was featured on a local community radio program. Dr. Michael Sefton, director of neuropsychological and psychological service, was the guest of Steve Soreff, M.D., host of the Worcester Health Team on WCUW-FM. The 60-minute show has been produced by Dr. Soreff for over 10 years and focuses on local health concerns such as diabetes, obesity, and a host of childhood issues. On July 11, 2005, Dr. Michael Sefton discussed his current book ‘The Evil that Kid’s Do’ a book about the origins of childhood aggression that was published in February 2005 by Xlibris, a Philadelphia book publisher. Soreff asked about the role of childhood temperament on violence. “Temperament is considered an inborn trait that defines just how reactive some children will be” according to Dr. Sefton. “This requires that parents’ learn to anticipate their child’s behavior in different settings such as the supermarket and provide a predictable routine that meets each individual’s unique adaptability and emotional need” said Sefton. Parents and teachers were advised that when aggression interferes with a child’s relationships at home or in school outside help may be needed. Early intervention into maladaptive childhood behavior is essential in assuring a healthy emotional development. “Kid’s are not evil but sometimes exhibit behavior that may seem unthinkable to some” such as the spate of recent school shootings said Sefton. The key lies in healthy parenting and using one’s family and community for support when needed. Dr. Sefton can be reached at Whittier Rehabilitation Hospital in Westborough at 508-871-2077. The Worcester Health Team airs Mondays at 4 PM on WCUW-FM found at 91.3 on the radio dial.
ARE KIDS CULPABLE FOR MURDER? If so, when?
June 9, 2005
Westborough, MA The recent upsurge in extremely violent crimes committed by children has resulted in considerable confusion among parents, teachers, and pediatricians. Can children as young as six or seven be held liable for crimes they commit? That question has come up again in Florida with the confession of a 7-year old child who admitted to killing his baby sister. “We should not be surprised by the hideous crimes reported almost daily in newspapers across the country” says Michael S. Sefton, Ph.D. a neuropsychologist from Westborough, MA and author of “The Evil that Kids Do” (Xlibris February 2005). The boy in Florida confessed to killing his sister because she would not stop crying. The children’s parents were outside visiting friends at the time of the 2X4 attack on the infant.
“Murders such as this one are extremely rare” according to Dr. Sefton. Nevertheless, they are on the increase. In late May a 9-year old girl in New York City was charged with killing an 11-year old neighbor in an argument over a ball. It is unlikely that children as young as 7 can be held culpable for his or her actions. When are children held responsible for their actions? Worcester County District Attorney John J. Conte believes children who commit murder should not be treated
About the Author
Dr. Michael S. Sefton is a child/adolescent psychologist and pediatric neuropsychologist. He is the director of psychological and neuropsychological services at Whittier Rehabilitation Hospital in Westborough, MA. He has a specialty in traumatic brain injury and concussion in children and adolescents. Dr. Sefton has worked at length with children and their families in crisis over nearly 20 years of clinical service. He has served as a clinical evaluator for the Massachusetts Juvenile Arson Task force and has taught clinicians about juvenile firesetting. He is formerly the coordinator of Emergency Psychological Service at La Palma Intercommunity Hospital in La Palma, CA. He serves the community of New Braintree, MA as a sworn police officer and provides the complete range of police service to this community. Dr. Sefton is married and has 2 children and one chocolate lab. He is an avid cyclist and photographer. He is the assistant captain of the Coyotes, a NESHL men´s hockey team.