Helping children to grow into responsible, well-adjusted individuals is a central concern for parents and those working with children. One crucial aspect of adjustment is the ability to solve one's problems and conflicts in an effective, appropriate and non-violent manner.

As parents grapple with how to help their children achieve this goal, they are confronted with television programs ranging from cartoons to news programs which portray conflicts being 'solved' through violence and aggression. As the Christmas season approaches, they are also confronted with toy shops brimming with a vast array of toys with which children can play at killing and injuring others.