NCJ Number
200372
Journal
Youth Studies Australia Volume: 22 Issue: 1 Dated: March 2003 Pages: 25-30
Date Published
March 2003
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article discusses various forms of violence among young people in Australia.
Abstract
Although Australia is not a particularly violent society the amount of violence experienced by young people as perpetrators and as victims needs to be reduced. The author suggests that there are significant dangers of violence for some Australian young people. Citing Aboriginals and homeless and poverty stricken young people as most susceptible to violent acts, the author argues that the most damaging youth violence is that which occurs routinely as a part of individuals’ personal relationships and their relationships with society. Proposing that the definition of violence should be “the intent to harm,” the author contends that in many Australian communities the violence conducted against individuals is not physical, but is the result of rich people fighting poor people with money, lawsuits, and hostile takeovers. Furthermore, much violence committed in Australia against young people takes the form of parental care and support being withdrawn or suspended. The key to reducing youth violence in Australia is for communities to connect with youths by treating young people as individuals with valid feelings and interests. References