We all want to protect our children. From the moment they’re born, the fear of them being harmed (and what we can do to prevent it) is never far from our thoughts—even when they’ve grown and left the nest.
Teen violence has been a topic of national discussion lately, particularly following the release of a new study centering on teen dating violence. Authored by Dr. Kevin J. Vagi of the CDC’s Division of Violence Prevention, the study reveals that about one in five female students and one in 10 male students have experienced some form of teen dating violence in the past 12 months. Other studies have shown that violence during one’s teenage years can carry on well into adulthood.
While it’s impossible to completely protect our teens from the dangers of the world, there are several signs you can watch for that may indicate they are currently experiencing—or are at risk to experience—some form of violence.
Know the Warning Signs
The American Psychological Association outlines a number of warning signs that could indicate your teen is facing the risk of violence. While some of these are considered static, or unchangeable (such as having a major mental illness), others can be mitigated or prevented. Some signs of potential violence can include:
- Increased loss of temper
- Serious drug or alcohol use
- Frequent physical fighting
- Gang membership, or a desire to join a gang
- Increased risk-taking behavior
- Access to or fascination with weapons
- Declining school performance
- Withdrawal from friends and usual activities
- Planning how to commit acts of violence
- Regularly feeling rejected or alone
- Announcing plans or threats to hurt others
- Feeling constantly disrespected
What You Can Do
As a parent or caregiver, you are the first person to respond when it comes to helping your teen overcome violence, or to prevent it from happening. If you observe any of the previous warning signs in your teenager, there are steps you can take to help.
- Start the conversation. It’s imperative that your teens know they can talk to you about anything, anytime. Start a conversation with them about solving problems through nonviolent means.
- Monitor their media. What your teens observe through TV and the Internet can affect how they view acceptable responses to problems. Know what they’re watching, and discuss it with them. If necessary, forbid them from watching TV and films that you believe are inappropriate.
- Be a role model. The way you deal with violence and other issues is one of the strongest influences on your children’s behavior. Don’t just tell them, but show them the proper way to react to violence.
- Reduce or remove potential threats whenever possible. Teach your children ways to avoid potentially dangerous situations. And if you own guns, always make sure they are under lock and key, and that your teen does not have access to those keys.
David Lowenstein, Ph.D. is a psychologist and the clinical director of Lowenstein & Associates, Inc. in Columbus, Ohio. In addition to providing therapeutic services to individuals and families, he offers training and consultation to numerous associations, schools and agencies around the country. Additionally, he is a frequent radio and TV guest and a resource and contributing writer for numerous newspapers and magazines nationwide. Contact Dr. David Lowenstein at 691 South Fifth Street Columbus, OH 43206 or by phone at 614.443.6155 or 614.444.0432, and learn more at www.https://drlowenstein.com/.
