Violence is defined as any type of physical behavior that causes injury to another person. Teen violence ranges from simple threats to varying degrees of aggression such as beating, stabbing, shooting, and even murder. Teen violence is a common concern today and is gradually becoming a serious social problem.

Teen violence is a learned behavior and can be the outcome of a multitude of interrelated factors. Teens may be the victims of physical or sexual abuse, they may have been exposed to violence at home or in their community, they may have been exposed to violence in media (TV, movies, music, etc.), they may have abused drugs or alcohol. Teen violence may also be the result of stressful socioeconomic factors such as poverty, severe deprivation, marital break up, unemployment or the loss of support from extended family. All these are risk factors that can be significantly reduced or eliminated in order to decrease or even prevent violent teen behavior. More importantly drastic measures should be taken to decrease the exposure of teenagers to violence at home, in the community and through media.

There are signs that teens exhibit which may serve as warning for potential violence. Parents should then be vigilant with regard to these warning signs: carrying a gun or any other weapon to school, addiction to drugs or alcohol, family history of violent behavior or suicide attempts, bullying or intimidating peers, cruel behavior towards pets and animals, habit of blaming others without accepting one’s own misdeed, involvement with cults or gangs, recent experience of humiliation, shame, loss or rejection, disciplinary problems at school or in the community. If for instance, your teen exhibits any of the above mentioned warning signs then it is exigent to conduct counseling and explain the evil behind such behavior.

Parents must keep in mind that the more their children are exposed to the risk factors and the more their children exhibit the warning signs, the greater is the probability that their children would manifest violent or aggressive behavior. If it’s too late and you are already dealing with a troubled teen , it is imperative that you show them your full support. However, if after consistent counseling and advice your teen does not show any sign of improvement, it may be wise to consider the assistance of specialists.