Parents
Want to protect your teen?
Are you afraid that your teen is getting involved in violence? Check out the warning signs and what you can do to help them.
Protecting your teen
It is important that you stay involved in your teen's life. There are a number of early warning signs that can mean that someone is leaning toward violent behaviour.Early warning signs
- History of aggressive behaviour
- Serious drug or alcohol use
- Access to, or fascination with weapons
- Threatens others
- Trouble controlling feelings, especially anger
- Withdrawal from friends and usual activities
- Feels rejected or alone
- Is a victim of bullying
- Poor school performance
- History of discipline problems
- Feels disrespected
- Fails to acknowledge feelings or rights of others
Immediate warning signs
- Loss of temper on a daily basis and frequent fighting
- Vandalism or property damage
- Increased use of drugs or alcohol
- Increased risk-taking behaviour
- Detailed plans to commit violent acts
- Announces threats or plans to hurt others
- Starts to harm animals
- Begins carrying a weapon
If you think your teen is at risk
You play the most important role in keeping your child safe from violence. Here are a few things that you can do to help prevent your child from being a victim of violence.- Set boundaries for your child.
- Care: ask your child what they did today.
- Set a positive example: live a healthy and safe life and show your child that there are ways solve problems without using violence.
- Be involved: be actively involved in your child's life. Communicate with them and spend time with them.
