NCJ Number
177725
Date Published
1999
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This paper outlines the early and imminent warning signs for violent behavior by youth and suggests resiliency factors that can protect children from becoming violent and make them less vulnerable to the effects of violence.
Abstract
Early warning signs for violent behavior are social withdrawal, excessive feelings of isolation and rejection, being a victim of violence, feelings of persecution, uncontrolled anger, patterns of impulsive and chronic intimidation, a history of discipline problems and aggressive behavior, intolerance for differences, drug and alcohol use, affiliation with gangs, and inappropriate access to and possession of firearms. Imminent warning signs indicate that a youth is at high risk for dangerously violent behavior. These warning signs include serious physical fighting with peers or family members, destruction of property, severe rage for apparently minor reasons, detailed threats of lethal violence, and possession and/or use of firearms and other weapons. When these signs exist, action must be taken immediately by parents, school authorities, and possibly law enforcement officers. Resiliency factors that can counter tendencies toward violence are positive role models, the development of self-esteem and self-efficacy, supportive relationships with teachers and friends, a sense of hope about the future, belief in oneself, strong social skills, good peer relationships, and a trusting bond with a nurturing adult outside the family. This paper also lists the characteristics of school communities that are most effective in preventing and responding to the threat and perpetration of violence.