Violence in the Community

School Violence

• Definition: Violent behavior occurring on school property, at school-sponsored events, or during transit to and from school.

• Impact: Threatens the safety of all students and leads to serious legal and academic consequences.

Gang Violence

• Activities: Often involves illegal acts such as vandalism, selling drugs, and robbery.

• Motivations for Joining: Seeking acceptance, identity, financial gain, or protection from peer pressure.

Human Trafficking

• Types: Modern slavery categorized as labor trafficking (forced work through threats or deportation) or sex trafficking (forced sexual activity or explicit media).

• Health Effects: Potential for injuries, STIs, PTSD, depression, and social isolation.

• Warning Signs: Sudden behavioral changes, loss of contact with family, and signs of being controlled or coached by another person.

Hate Crimes and Homicide

• Hate Crimes: Violence targeting groups based on race, ethnicity, disability, or religion; driven by prejudice.

• Homicide: The act of killing another person; results in severe criminal charges, with teens occasionally treated as adults in legal proceedings.

Terrorism and Radicalization

• Terrorism: The use of violence and threats to control or intimidate populations based on ideological motivations.

• Radicalization Signs: Sudden shifts in personality, promotion of hateful ideas, and anger when beliefs are questioned.