Violence is defined as behavior involving physical force intended to hurt, damage, or kill someone or something. It can be defined by the unlawful exercise of physical force or intimidation. There are many types of violence that include but not limited to domestic violence, child abuse, elder abuse, human trafficking, sexual assault, gang violence and violent crimes. Luckily, there are prevention methods and resources available to stop the cycle of violence.
Violence in the United States
Violence has become a growing public health crisis in America. Acts of violence affect each member of society across the age range. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), violence is a leading cause of death and disability which also affects youth, low-income populations and people of color at a higher rate. Violence takes on many forms, which includes child abuse, suicide, domestic/intimate partner violence, human trafficking, gang violence, and elder abuse. Beyond the medical cost, individuals who are exposed to violence are more likely to experience some health effects from being exposed. Negative health behaviors such as risk-taking behavior, drug abuse and mental health problems are often linked to violence and trauma as a result of exposure to violence.
The solution to violence is prevention and there are a number of programs that help deter crime The FDHA work’s collaboratively with community partners to provide resources to encourage positive behaviors and responses to conflict. It is important to know how to stay safe and prevent crimes before they happen. Effective crime prevention strategies address the factors we know contribute directly to crime. Through targeted programming, we aim to reduce risk factors and promote protective dynamics by engaging community groups, grassroots groups, police officers, and other stakeholders to create safe and thriving communities.
Domestic Violence Impacts
Risk & Protective Factors
Risk Factors are negative conditions that increase the likelihood a person will commit a crime. These situations occur at any stage in life and can include:
- Unemployment and low income
- Educational levels including high school drop-out rates
- Changes in families and parenting
- Household size availability
- Use of alcohol and drugs
- Shifts in social values
- Moving to larger cities
- A shift to communities where people don’t know each other
Protective Factors are positive features or conditions that reduce risks and promote positive development. They decrease the likelihood of engaging in crime.
- Positive attitudes and coping skills
- Supportive family
- Positive and healthy peers
- Living in low-crime neighborhoods with access to support services
Call 911 if you or someone is in immediate danger.
Violence Prevention Fact Sheet
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Violence Prevention Community Partners
Download a complete list of Violence Prevention Community Partners
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