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The following factors may be cause for you to be alert and aware of your teenager’s actions. Most of the time, these factors do not occur alone when violent behavior is observed. Based on studies, the likelihood of violent behavior doubles in your teenager if:
* A history of violence exists in the family
* The teenager has experienced abuse
* He/she is part of a group of “outcasts” who may be bullied by others.
* He/she is part of a gang
* He/she is suffering from substance abuse
As a parent you can have direct influence over whether your teen is exposed to violence in the family. If you become aware of a certain member of the family who may be exposing your child to violence, plan your intervention as soon as possible. It is vital to get your teenager away from this influence, especially if your teen’s safety is concerned.
Do not hesitate to report any occurrences of physical abuse to the proper authorities. In cases when a close family member is involved, it may be particularly difficult to report abuse, but keep in mind that ultimately your child’s welfare is at stake. By close monitoring and your observation and awareness, you can help eradicate other factors such as his experimentation with substance abuse and being part of a gang. By checking in with your teenager’s school counselor, you may also find out if he is being bullied by others.
The likelihood of violent behavior triples in your teenager if:
* He/she has access to a weapon
* He/she has been previously under arrest.
* He/she has a mental disorder.
* He/she has been experiencing school troubles or been cutting classes.
As a parent you can have direct influence over whether your teen has access to a weapon at home or not. Keep your home a safe place for you and your children. Those teenagers who struggle with bouts of self-harm and self-destructive behaviors have been observed to initially use household cutters or other items that can be found around the house to inflict harm to one’s self.
Once you are wary of your problem teen’s tendency towards self-destructive behavior, keep these items under your close supervision instead of leaving them out in the open. You may also address your troubled teenager’s mental disorder as soon as you become familiar with the signs. Checking in with teachers or school counselors regarding your child’s school attendance can also help you monitor how your teen is doing at school.
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