Children in a Violent Society [Paperback]

Today's children are bombarded with images of violence in cartoons, news reports, television shows, computer games, movies, and other media. In growing numbers, they are also exposed to real-life violence in their own homes and communities--as witnesses, victims, and, increasingly, perpetrators. Emphasizing the need for early intervention and prevention, this timely book details the incidence and scope of the violence epidemic and examines the developmental impact of violence on children. Contributors describe several exemplary prevention and intervention programs currently in place around the country and propose a range of educational and policy initiatives.

"This book is a unique contribution to our understanding of a problem that is of increasing concern to people here and abroad, but which has received inadequate public attention to date. Over the last two decades, there has been much needed and increased attention to the long-term consequences of childhood victimization, but less attention has been paid to problems that are seen in younger children who witness violence. In keeping with this focus, this volume adopts a developmental perspective to understanding the impact of violence exposure and witnessing violence on children and youth. Although the emphasis is on developmental factors, such as neurodevelopmental effects, effects in infancy, and attachment issues, chapters are wide-ranging and include pieces on firearms injuries and media violence. The book's contributors argue for early preventive intervention and provide examples of innovative prevention and intervention programs for children and families exposed to violence in cities around the country." --Cathy Spatz Widom, PhD, Professor of Criminal Justice and Psychology, The University at Albany (SUNY)

"As judges handling acts of violence in criminal and family court, we rarely look beyond the legal parties and inquire about witnessing violence by children. Dr. Ol#"