From Messrs S. Camilleri & D. Hamilton

With reference to the article entitled “Responsible families” by Josie Muscat (TMIS, 22 February) some clarifications need to be made.

In his article Dr Muscat implies that the teaching of Personal and Social Development (PSD) in schools is a contributing factor in the increase of pregnant underage girls and of single parenthood.

The truth is that PSD aims at empowering students to develop and learn skills that will enhance their well being and help them negotiate and control their own lives as individuals within a social context and, therefore become responsible citizens. Some of the personal and effective skills PSD tries to develop in students are that of adopting a healthy lifestyle, respecting oneself and others and accepting responsibility for one’s behaviour.

PSD teachers tackle topics that have to do with teenage pregnancy and the consequences this will have on the student him/herself, both on the baby and on the whole family. PSD also tackles topics that deal with responsibility in relationships. The learning outcomes of such topics is that of helping students understand the importance of being responsible when in a relationship and to be able to say “no” to things one does not want to do.

In PSD the teacher tries to instil into students positive values and encourages them to make the right choices.

Stephen Camilleri (Education Officer – PSD)

Dunstan Hamilton (Education Officer – PSD)