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Stopping the Cycle: Domestic Violence, Gangs, and Other Forms of Abuse

11.24.2008 · Posted in Humanities Articles

Unfortunately, violence is part of the history of humankind. War, genocide, and terrorism have left their mark worldwide. There is not a country immune to acts of violence, large and small. We are plagued with media descriptions of horrific acts amongst nations and peoples. When we turn to our own communities, we see domestic violence, school shootings, child abuse, and gang violence. Statistics show that violence is on the rise and we need to begin to understand why and, moreover, what we can do to prevent violent outbreaks in our communities. Believing violence will not enter our own backyard is not the proactive way to think. Educating ourselves and asking the difficult questions are ways to begin understanding how we, as a nation and as individuals, can help fight the battle against violence.rnrnGang and Domestic ViolencernrnGang violence has taken over some communities and is quickly infiltrating others. Gangs draw young people from all walks of life, regardless of socio-economic background, race, or ethnic group. Similarly, domestic violence is widespread and knows no boundaries. Not only does domestic violence affect the victim, but the entire family can be traumatized as well. rnrnWorking TogetherrnrnEducators, social workers, counselors, healthcare professionals, law enforcement officers, and parents must work together to help identify children who are at risk. Studies have shown that the child who was once the victim can easily cross over into the adult who victimizes. Breaking the cycle of abuse is paramount, as is healing the psychological wounds inflicted upon innocent children. The social and personal impact of abuse runs deep. Identification, intervention, and treatment can help build coping skills and reduce the emotional impact of trauma of violence.rnrnThe time for a working partnership between individuals and their communities is now, and gathering reliable information is paramount to this endeavor. Consulting experts and reading books and newsletters written by professionals who have thoroughly researched abuse and violence is a sure way to gain both a “big picture” understanding of the problem, as well as to find real-world solutions. For example, families and community leaders should be able to recognize the warning signs of a violent personality, the impact that addiction and alcoholism have on children, and even why kids become bullies.rnrnInformation to SeekrnrnLook for information from researchers who understand and can identify the key childhood and family risk factors that cause young people to grow up into violent adults. Topics can cover a broad range of information, from how to keep kids from joining gangs to guidance in helping families with difficult needs. They might even include stress management and relaxation techniques that can help those at risk solve their problems, change their behavior, and channel their emotions to a constructive use. rnrnThe research has been done. Books on the “tough” subjects are out there, can easily be read and are even more easily shared. Whether it’s a counselor recommending a book to a victim of domestic violence or a parent sharing a book with a teen on gang violence, the information is invaluable. Learning, understanding, and prevention are the keys to winning this battle against violence. Start your reading today.

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