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Dear Medical/Health Reporter:

It has been nearly two years since the school shootings at Columbine High School where 12 students and a teacher were killed and 23 more were wounded. Today the tragic killings in Santee, CA makes the headlines. Deadly youth violence is on the rise and these headlines are becoming far too familiar.

The slayings in San Diego deeply underscore the need for more awareness and understanding of youth violence. Did you know that one in 12 high school students is threatened or injured with a weapon each year? Or that individuals between the ages of 12 and 24 face the highest risk of being a victim of violence?

While there is no single explanation for the overall rise in youth violence, many different factors such as peer pressure and early childhood abuse or neglect, among others, contribute to violent behavior. The more stressful factors are present in children’s lives, the more likely they are to commit an act of violence. Heed warning signs such as withdrawal from friends and usual activity, poor school performance, or failing to acknowledge the feelings or rights of others. These are just a few examples of the signals that violence is a strong possibility. Take any and all threats of violence seriously.

As a service to your community, the Psychologists in Independent Practice, a Division of the American Psychological Association (APA), would like to offer a psychologist in your area to speak with you on this topic. He/She would be able to explain some of the factors that contribute to violent behavior, describe warning signs that violent behavior is a possibility, and offer suggestions for what you can do if you sense someone may become violent and how to safely proceed.

Your readers can request “Warning Signs,” a guide produced by MTV and APA to help youth avoid violent situations and stop violence before it happens. The free brochure is available by phoning toll-free 1-877-603-4000. I look forward to speaking with you.

Sincerely,