YOUTH VIOLENCE: Providing Space to Hear what Teens Say about Violence
MJJA RED Lunchtime and conferences have included discussions about childhood trauma, mental illness, and other dispositions that impact youth behavior. The recent MLK Festivities reignited Dr King’s focus on nonviolence, which aligned with the current protests across American cities where nonviolent protesters demonstrate their democratic rights.
Ironically, our youth appear to experience violent encounters frequently. How often? What impacts? What proactive/preventive measures might be taken? Well, have we asked the youth, and how might we ask them?
First, it might be helpful to know Quick facts and stats on youth violence. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
Thousands of people experience youth violence every day. Youth violence negatively impacts youth in all communities—urban, suburban, rural, and tribal. The following facts are based on data from the United States.
Youth violence is common. Homicide is the third leading cause of death for young people ages 10-24. It is the leading cause of death for non-Hispanic Black or African American youth. Emergency departments treat over 800 young people for physical assault-related injuries each day.
Some youths are at greater risk than others. Sexual minority teens are more likely to experience multiple forms of violence compared to their heterosexual peers. Black or African American youth and young adults are at higher risk for the most physically harmful forms of violence. This includes homicides, fights with injuries, and aggravated assaults.
Youth violence is costly. In 2020, youth homicides and nonfatal physical assault-related injuries resulted in an estimated $122 billion annually. These costs include medical care, lost work, and quality of life. This estimate does not include costs to the criminal justice system.
COVID-19 has impacted the economic burden of youth violence. Compared to 2019, the economic burden of youth violence was 17% higher in 2020 ($122 billion vs. $105 billion).
MJJA Lunchtime will feature discussions on youth violence. Meanwhile, here are some videos that might help you to start the conversations.
Blog Prompt:
Do you think providing space for teens to discuss their views on teen violence will be helpful? If so, how might this be done? Post your answer below.