How to Stop Teen Violence
Teen violence or youth violence is an ongoing problem and has been identified as a public health issue in many communities across the United States. Violence among teens includes acts of bullying, homicide, rape, robber, suicide and other violent acts where the teen can be a victim, an offender or witness to the violence. The Centers for Disease Control has argued that identifying and eliminating a set of risk factors can stop youth violence.
*Risk factors include:
Prior history of violence
Drug, alcohol, or tobacco use
Association with delinquent peers
Poor family functioning
Poor grades in school
Poverty in the community
*(see reference 2).
Strategic actions on behalf of parents, teachers and other community members that address risk factors can go a long way in preventing teen violence.
Instructions
Make teens feel like they are in control of their own lives and destinies. Teens who believe that their success or failure depends on their behavior are less likely to become involved in violence and other antisocial behavior. Provide teens with training in a skill such as playing an instrument or a sport. When teens possess skills or a special talent they maintain a higher level of self-esteem and self-image. A positive sense of self decreases the incidence of violence teens may encounter and influences them to make appropriate decisions. Create an atmosphere that always includes an adult who nurtures and supports the teen. Teens who can depend on the presence of an adult who will listen and help them in navigating challenging issues often avoid violent situations. Help teens develop a consistently optimistic attitude. A worldview that is based on hope assists teens in difficult times that make them vulnerable to violence. Encourage altruism in teens as a way to make them feel connected to persons unrelated to them. Teens who have an unselfish regard for others' welfare often find it difficult to emotionally distance themselves from the pain of their peers and adults.
