From Bullying to Violence
Youth violence is the “intentional use of physical force or power to threaten or harm others by young people ages 10-24″1.
Youth violence is the third leading cause of death among teens and young adults aged 10-24, and it is the leading cause of death for Black and African American youth 1.
Each day, over 800 young people are treated at emergency departments for physical assault-related injuries 1.
Some youths are at a greater risk than others to experience violence. Sexual minority teens are more likely to experience multiple forms of violence compared to their heterosexual peers, while Black or African American youth and young adults are at a higher risk for the most physically harmful forms of violence (e.g., homicides, fights, aggravated assaults) compared with white youth and young adults1.
Youth homicides and nonfatal physical assault-related injuries in 2020 resulted in an estimated $122 billion, which includes medical care, lost work, and quality of life 1.
Prevention is Complicated
Prevention efforts must go beyond awareness and address the root causes of violence among youth, such as socioeconomic disparities, access to education and healthcare, home and community environments, and cultural influences. By fostering supportive environments, providing education and resources, and promoting positive role models, youth violence prevention seeks to create safer communities and brighter futures for young people.
Roots of Youth Violence
There is not just one singular cause of an experience of violence. Violence extends beyond the individual and involves their closest relationships, their community, and society itself. According to the World Health Organization, violence can be traced to the following factors:
Individual Level
- Unaddressed behavioral health disorders
- Early involvement with alcohol, drugs, and tobacco
- Low commitment to school and school failure
- Previous involvement in crime
- Unemployment
- Exposure to violence in the family
Close Relationships (Family, Friends, Intimate Partners, and Peers)
- Poor parental monitoring and supervision
- Harsh, lax, or inconsistent parental disciplinary practices
- A low level of attachment between parents and children
- Low parental involvement in children’s activities
- Parental substance abuse or criminality
- Parental depression
- Low family income
- Unemployment in the family
- Association with delinquent peers and/or gang membership
Community and Wider Society
- Access and exposure to alcohol
- Access to and misuse of firearms
- Gang presence
- High-income inequality
- Poverty
Long-Term Effects of Youth Violence
Unique instances of youth violence can have immediate and devastating consequences on an individual and their community. However, ongoing exposure to violence in neighborhoods, schools, and cities can have long-term effects that are often overlooked. The long-term effects of violence extend across physical, mental, and social health, and disproportionately impact communities of color.
The prolonged effects of violence can increase the likelihood of:
- Violence perpetration and victimization
- Smoking
- Substance Use
- Obesity
- High-Risk Sexual Behaviors
- Depression
- Academic Difficulties
- School Dropout
- Suicide
How Can We Prevent Violence
Preventing violence among youth is a priority to all communities, however, the systematic health and social inequalities that put individuals at risk for violence are disproportionately experienced by Black or African American youth and young adults. Concentrated poverty. Residential segregation and racism limit access to healthy, supportive, resource-rich environments1. According to the CDC1 and WHO2, preventing youth violence involves:
Promoting family environments that support healthy development
- Early childhood home visitation
- Parenting skill and family relationship programs
Providing quality education early in life
- Preschool enrichment with family engagement
Strengthening youth skills
- Universal school-based programs
Connecting youth to caring adults and activities
- Mentoring programs
- After-school and pro-social programs
Creating protective community environments
- Reduce access to alcohol and drugs
- Promoting firearm safety
- Community outreach and norm change
Providing access to healthcare
- Mental health clinics and programs
- Treatment programs for substance abuse issues
Tips for Parents
Parents can be critical partners in the prevention of youth violence by actively engaging in discussions, educating their teens, promoting a culture of peace and respect, and accessing support early when necessary.
Below are 5 opportunities to support social-emotional development and healthy relationships in your family:
Open Communication: Encourage open and honest communication with your teen about their feelings, experiences, and concerns. Create a safe space where they feel comfortable discussing any challenges they may be facing, including peer pressure or conflicts.
Healthy Conflict Resolution: Teach your teen healthy ways to resolve conflicts without resorting to violence or aggression. Model positive conflict resolution strategies in your own interactions and encourage empathy, active listening, and compromise.
Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries and expectations regarding behavior, including zero tolerance for violence or abusive behavior. Consistently enforce consequences for any violations of these boundaries while also providing support and guidance.
Monitor Online Activity: Stay informed about your teen’s online activity and social media interactions. Discuss the importance of responsible digital citizenship, including the impact of cyberbullying and the potential consequences of online aggression.
Seek Support: Encourage your teen to seek support from trusted adults, such as teachers, counselors, or family members if they experience or witness violence or bullying. Provide information about local resources and support services available for teens needing assistance.
References
1. “Preventing Youth Violence.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 25 Oct. 2023, https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/youthviolence/fastfact.html
2. “Youth Violence.” World Health Organization. 11 Oct. 2023, https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/youth-violence
