Violence

When you think of violence, the first image that usually comes to mind is two people trying to hurt each other, which is known as interpersonal violence. This is the most prevalent type of violence and the area that this website will focus on. Violence is influenced by many different factors and can take place in many different forms. Many don't realize that children may experience all kinds of violence.

The following is a list of the four common forms of violence taken from the brochure Be Akamai About Violence (Kamehameha Schools Health, Family and Wellness Education Department):

• Physical-pushing, slapping, fighting, using weapons
• Verbal/Non-Verbal-name-calling, spreading rumors, giving "stink eye," cyberbullying
• Sexual-touching, sexual name-calling, rape
• Damaging Property-throwing, breaking or stealing things, hurting pets

	Signs and Symptoms The National Youth Violence Prevention Center's website provides parents with great information on the signs and symptoms of violence and ways to prevent it among youth. The American Psychological Association Help Center website also gives you more information on recognizing violence warning signs.

As parents and caring adults, you can do much to address and prevent violence. When you are involved in the lives of your children, you can better teach them to avoid violent situations and present them with opportunities to engage in alternative activities. You must also be able to recognize and respond positively to situations where violence can or does occur, so you can better help and protect your children. Encouraging them to participate in extra-curricular activities, volunteering to facilitate their activities, and communicating with them daily are things you can do to strengthen protective factors that will help them make the right choices.

Because violence is a learned behavior, parents and caring adults should also be good role models. It is also important for you to strengthen protective factors and reduce risk factors at each stage of your children's development.

	Violence Information Bullying is the most prevalent form of violence experienced among children. Because of this fact, we will focus more on bullying. You can also find more information about bullying and other forms of violence and ways to prevent them on the National Youth Violence Prevention Center's website (www.safeyouth.org).