Research in line with Alexander's book
A leading Christchurch researcher's findings that badly behaved seven-year-olds are often headed for a life of crime,
drugs, teen parenthood and mental illness square with the premise and conclusions of the book launched by United Future
Christchurch MP Marc Alexander this week.
"Professor David Fergusson's findings make riveting reading, and deserve a wide audience," Mr Alexander, author of
Justice With Both Eyes Open said today.
Prof Fergusson released his findings to the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists on Monday,
pointing to early intervention as the only way to deal with social problems that have experts "wringing their hands".
"His findings are consistent with many similar schools of thought, and I completely agree," Mr Alexander said.
"At every point, and in every situation, sooner is better in terms of turning lives around.
"And this is particularly so in addressing crime and its causes, and getting to young offenders and potential young
offenders before they go off the rails, and become a menace to society and themselves," he said.
Prof Fergusson leads the Christchurch Heal and Development Study which has tracked more than 1000 Christchurch children
from birth to the age of 25.