Youth violence is the intentional use of physical force or power to threaten or harm others by young people ages 10-24.
It can include:
Fighting (e.g., punching, slapping, kicking)
Bullying and cyberbullying
Threats with weapons
Gang-related violence.
Youth violence can have long-term impact on health and wellbeing. The good news is violence is preventable
Violence is an urgent public health problem. From infants to the elderly, it affects people in all stages of life and can lead to a lifetime of physical, emotional, and economic problems.
Avoid places known for violence
Use words to settle arguments
Avoid drug and alcohol users
Learn how to control your anger
Think about consequences before you act
Never carry a gun or weapon to school
Join group activities
Report anyone carrying a weapon to authorities
Be a mediator
Realize that violence doesn't solve problems, it creates them
Teens who experience violence have several health conditions and risk behaviors, including:
Missed school due to safety concerns
Risky sexual behavior
Low academic grades
Overweight or obesity
Carried a weapon
Felt sad or hopeless
Suicidal thoughts or behavior
Substance use
People with risk factors may be more likely to experience violence. Meanwhile, protective factors can help buffer people from violence. This video will humanize both types of factors by using actors on a stage to show how people can move up or get held back in life, depending on positive or negative impacts.
A Form of Abuse
Human trafficking is defined as a form of abuse or neglect under the Texas Family Code, Section 261.001.
Human trafficking is a crime that occurs when a trafficker compels a victim by force, fraud, or coercion to perform labor, services, or commercial sex. Anyone can be targeted by a trafficker.
Perpetrators of human trafficking manipulate and exploit others’ vulnerabilities for profit.
Even if victims initially consent to go with or work for the perpetrator, that consent is rendered meaningless when perpetrators exploit them for labor, services, or commercial sex.
Learn about links between teens’ experiences with violence and their health.
Talk with teens about violence and ask how you can support them.
Reach out to local programs to learn effective parenting practices.
Make teen mentoring,
Apprenticeship
Leadership programs more available.
Collaborate with health departments and other partners to promote healthy and safe neighborhoods.
Make use of effective social and economic policies that reduce violence.
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