POLICE ASSOCIATION OF NOVA SCOTIA 91 Harsh Parental Discipline Practices: Severe and habitual physical punishment by parents or guardians has been connected with the later development of violent behaviour patterns in children and youth. Criminal Behaviour: Criminality of other family members is a key factor in the delinquency of some youth. A recent study concluded that if an older member of a boy’s family has been convicted of a criminal offence, the probability of that boy committing a criminal offence increases more than two and one-half times. 3. School Factors Low school grades, school failure and drop-out have been associated with the experiences of child abuse and/or victimization in teenage years. They are linked to the serious effects that abuse has on both self-esteem and general health. 4. Risk Factors Particular to Males Patriarchal Values: In some male youth, a belief in rigid, traditional gender roles increases the risk of perpetrating abuse against females. Some males believe that they are more important and have the right to control females. When they believe their dominance is being threatened, these youth can use violence in an attempt to regain control. Peer Group/Gang Involvement: Male youth groups or gangs are involved in a significant portion of all youth violence. Not all youth groups can be categorized as gangs; indeed, belonging to a peer group is a healthy part of adolescent development for most youth. The most important factor that distinguishes a gang from a healthy group of friends is the violent, criminal behaviour of the members, for example some illicit drug activities. If a young male is involved with a gang, he will likely be violent along with other gang members. Resiliency Several factors can reduce the risk that youth will experience violence. These "protective" factors include a nonabusive home; strong, early childhood attachment to caregiver(s) and good parental supervision; positive adult role models; and completion of high school and post-secondary school. What You Can Do and Where You Can Go for Help Perpetrators: If you are behaving abusively toward others, counselling or parenting skills training services listed in your local telephone directory can help you to develop non-violent ways of dealing with people. However, only you can make the decision to stop your violent behaviour. Victims: There are trained counsellors and services in your community (including support groups, outreach programs and drop-in centres) that can help you to deal with being victimized by violence. If you go to school, speak with a trusted teacher or guidance counsellor who can help you get the help you need. Speak with another adult whom you trust. If you are not able to contact a counselling agency, you can call the Kids Help Phone free of charge at 1-800-668-6868. Parents: If you are a parent and you think that your teenager is violent or is being abused, don’t be afraid to seek help for yourself or your teenager. This could be an important step in stopping a cycle of abuse in your family. Teachers and Counsellors: You can play an important role in preventing violence and helping abused youth recover from their experiences with violence. If you encounter youth who are the perpetrators or victims of violent behaviour, you may have a legal obligation to contact the police or the local child welfare office, depending upon the age of the young person. Peers: If you think that one of your friends is being abusive, let them know that the behaviour is wrong, against the law and hurtful. Let them know that they are responsible for their actions, and that there is help available. If you think that a friend, family member, or even a person you do not know well, is being abused, offer them your support. Encourage them to seek help, and let them know that they are not to blame for the abuse. As originally published on www.gc.ca
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