THE EFFECTS OF FAMILY AND COMMUNITY VIOLENCE EXPOSURE AMONG YOUTH: RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PRACTICE AND POLICY

Abstract

Compared with other segments of the population, adolescents and, in particular, African Americans are disproportionately exposed to family and community violence. Research has consistently documented that exposure to such violence is often associated with psychological difficulties, poor educational and behavioral outcomes, and juvenile justice problems. Despite these compelling findings, many youth are not routinely assessed for such violence exposure and its ramifications by the educational, child welfare, social service, and juvenile justice systems with which they frequently interact. This article examines the prevalence of violence exposure within the family and community and its associated consequences among youth. Subsequently, the article proposes several practice and policy recommendations aimed at reducing the far-reaching effects of such violence exposure among youth.