The concept of “home” everywhere in the world, is identified with personal security, privacy, protection of individuality and family warmth. This framework is certainly one of the most important aspects of human existence as it allows man to consider himself successful. It is no coincidence, then, that every “insult” of the hearth often angers us, saddens us and frightens us. “Home” and “security” are synonymous.
But let's look at things in a little more detail.
There are certain types of shocks that can have long-term psychological effects. Life-threatening, hostage-taking and accident are some of these types of shock. Violation of the house, which unfortunately has been on the rise in recent years in Greece, is tantamount to a threat to life. The consequences of such a situation are:
- increased constant fear
- suspicious behavior and
- intensity which can lead to symptoms of irritability and psychomotor agitation.
In children, the effects can range from nocturnal enuresis, sudden recurrence of attachment, and regression to earlier stages of development. This means that a child may suddenly start behaving like a younger one.
Adolescents, because the period they are going through is essentially the recurrence of their childhood, may develop intense anger behaviors towards parental figures, or fear of losing them. But usually we humans, because we can not bear to think about the loss of our loved ones, shift the fear to other objects. So, a child who is scared after a burglary at home that something can happen to his parents, starts and is very afraid of the dark, or a teenager starts to get angry, becomes vindictive with his teachers, essentially wanting to tell his parents that he does not he was adequately protected, or an adult suddenly makes serious mistakes at work as a result of his need to declare that he feels insecure.
These are just some of the ways that the human psyche uses to deal with insecurity as effectively as possible. In the case of an external threat such as burglary, theft, intimidation, use of force, etc. the resulting shock has exceeded the limit of the imaginary and has become real. The realism of an act of violence, such as entering your home and finding it mixed up, confirms the worst fear. Many report that their sleep has been disturbed after such events. They usually begin to have recurring dreams that they are helpless, that they are out of control, that they are falling, that they are helpless, and so on. Children often have nightmares that persist for long periods of time. In some cases, a nervous breakdown is observed as a consequence of the violation.
The sense of security enables us to enjoy life more balanced in an ever-changing social structure, such as that of modern Greek and world reality. No one can control everything, but we can all use the necessary protection we must provide for ourselves and our children.
In the above article we collaborated with the Psychologist – Psychotherapist: Michalis Paterakis, M.A. Physiotherapy
Activating the alarm, a real solution
By securing your home with a reliable state-of-the-art alarm system, you shield every vulnerability and leave no room for potential burglars and intruders. The only thing you should not forget is that the alarm system should be activated throughout the day and not just at night. This ensures that your home remains in the eyes of your children the inaccessible “castle” that gives them safety and security, as well as endless moments of childish carelessness.
