Psychologist Attributes Violent Acts to Underestimation of Young People
Skopje – According to Christina Atanasova, a psychologist at the Skopje Gymnasium “Josip Broz Tito,” recent incidents of interpersonal violence, such as the case involving Gjorge Petrov, do not reflect a systemic issue of child abuse. Speaking on Alpha TV on June 2nd, 2026, at 15:32, Atanasova emphasized that any aggressive act by a young person should be viewed as a signal of a deeper problem. Atanasova explained that these behaviors are frequently rooted in a lack of empathy and often stem from self-justification, blame, and anger.
A key factor appears to be the perpetrator’s belief that they will avoid accountability. She argued that young people are frequently underestimated, contributing to these reactions. “No child is abused as a child,” Atanasova stated, highlighting the need to address the underlying issue of underestimation within society’s perception of youth.
The psychologist stressed the importance of recognizing the complex motivations behind violent acts and acknowledging the potential for self-justification and avoidance of responsibility. The comments follow a specific incident involving a young individual, prompting a broader discussion about the factors contributing to interpersonal violence within the community.
Topics: #child #young #people
“It’s concerning to hear a psychologist suggest that empathy deficits in young people contribute to such serious crimes.”
What factors contribute to a lack of empathy among young people, according to Dr. Atanasova’s research?