Carrying a weaponThe potential for violence exists in other children, the group says. Children who are in a gang or even who have a strong desire to be in a gang are at risk. If they start withdrawing from friends and usual activities, they are at risk. Even youngsters who suddenly start getting bad grades could be prone to violence. There is no formula for pinpointing exactly who will become violent. Numerous studies have been performed however, and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry has focused on certain factors that pinpoint violent behavior. These include: Previous aggressive or violent behavior Being the victim of physical abuse and/or sexual abuse Exposure to violence in the home and/or community Having a parent who is violent Heavy exposure to violence in TV and movies Use of drugs and/or alcohol Presence of firearms in home Brain damage from head injuryYouths who grow up in extremely stressful circumstances such as living in poverty or living with a single, unemployed parent are also at risk the experts say.These warning signs and factors are examples of what experts believe to be stereotypical of most juvenile criminals. It is not sufficient to blame poverty, the 1960s, drugs, uncaring parents, short-sighted social programs, misguided justice programs or any of the reasons so often stated for juvenile crimes. The simple truth is that there is no pat answer that works for everybody. Each juvenile and their situation is unique.Environment can affect behavior, but it can be less crucial than the choice the individual makes as they respond to that environment. For example, a single mother of two works two jobs to make ends meet. She is not at home when her children get home from school but makes arrangements for them to go to a neighbors house each day after school. They have to call her at work to get her permission to go any...
