I dont know if i agree with it or not. On one hand it could sort out the riff raff we have now, on another hand surrounding them in a macho angry culture for a couple of years could turn them into more riff raff.  *shrugs* dunno.

It's a bit radical, I know, but how about teaching them discipline during their school years and do it without giving them guns? 

By jove i think you've cracked it!

Although i think you'd have to tech this generation to be decent parent first, then that could happen with the next generation

Ah poo meant to edit last post rather than quote again

I honestly think its too late for that Blizzie, because the parents of the kids today are many of the ones who have no respect. Who's going to instil this discipline.   Im not a perfect mum, no way, but I am shocked at some of the information that filters through to me via overhearing what some of my daughters friends say to her about their houses, parents and things that have gone on.  eg: "My dad found this blackberry, and then the bloke phoned up and my dad said 'well F u, its my blackberry now', so now my mums got a blackberry".  That was one conversation I overheard, I was like... "So how do you think that man feels that lost it? would you like to loose your phone?".... I was met with a shrug and a blank look.

Oh yes, agreed. 

Too late for my generation, but, as my 14 year old daughter keeps telling me, she will be parenting in a very different way to me! 

Absolutely, as jenstar said, parenting will need to be taught too. Teachers can teach morals, ethics, empathy etc. Some people say, "Why should teachers have to do the parents' jobs, but, if they don't, some kids will always be a lost cause. And all those things need to be instilled far earlier than 16, or 18, which is presumably when National Service would start.

I don't see how a specifically military National Service will have any good effect on kids who have been brought up thinking that way. In fact, if they have violent tendencies, it could make things worse.

Anyone remember that TV prog ... somethnig like Bad Lads Boot Camp?

There was also a TV prog called BRAT CAMP - my fave!!

Both seemed to have good results

Yeah Renton they did teach routine and discipline, but as Blizzie says it needs to start earlier than teen. My 18month old is already starting to learn the difference between good and bad behaviour and i really do think these things start from a very early age.

Agreed - i don't think the state should be solely responsible

Why should it be? It can have a role but parenting is far too easily entered into

I agree. After my nightmare weekend when my nephew visited with his kids it has simply confirmed that you can't start early enough and it can all be done in a nice, normal and civilised way. They have a four year old, an eighteen month old and another one on the way. They really haven't a clue and what I saw broke my heart. The kids are a nightmare but it isn't their fault - my nephew and his partner are lazy, inconsistent and aggressive - a dreadful combination. They need to be taught parenting skills.

I was shocked and really upset and yet ................................I know there are many who are worse.

No.

Let's all go to hell in a handcart singing God save the Queen 

And other Sex Pistol classics.

Don't know about National Service, but there should be something for kids leaving school to "Have to" do if they are not employed.

Because of "Machines" there are never going to be enough jobs to go round, apprenticeships in skills, sports, drama, working in the community......anything that gets them out of the house at 8 and not home til 6 with a payment at the end must be good for them and their self esteem.