While youth crime in general has steadily decreased, the number of youth crimes involving violence has increased. In 1986 about 8.5 per cent of all youth crimes were classified as violent. By 1996 it was up to 18.5 per cent. The numbers highlight what a few teens know firsthand-that their world can sometimes be a hostile and dangerous place.
It's during the younger teen years that kids are more likely to be full of uncertainty and be singled out for intimidation. One of the most common forms of violence is extortion. Victims are intimidated into giving up money on a regular basis (sometimes called "taxing") or handing over mp3 players, clothing or shoes. There's often a rash of extortion for clothing whenever a new fad comes along. Violence also frequently erupts because of rumours or gossip, particularly about boyfriends or girlfriends.
Be sure your teens know that if they get into an uncomfortable situation of any kind, especially one that has the potential for violence, they can telephone and you'll go get them, no questions asked. Many families find it handy to have a code word their kids can use that tells parents there's trouble. That way, their kids can ask to be rescued even though someone is listening nearby. Good communication within the family means, too, that your kids let you know where they're going and what they're doing. If you're tuned in to your teen's life, you'll be able to react sooner if there's trouble.
Some police departments and schools, particularly in larger cities, are taking youth violence and teenage gangs more seriously, but many victims are still reluctant to tell, or to ask for help from, adults. Partly, they fear retaliation from the bullies; partly, they don't believe adults will take the problem seriously. But adult intervention is vital, and it's important for you to recognize some of the signs that your teen may be the victim of intimidation or violence from his or her peers.
Page 1 of 2 – Find out how you can protect your kids from violence and harassment on page 2.
