The prevalence of violence in our society is overwhelming. Violence is defined as "the threat or use of physical force that injures or intimidates a person or damages property."

More than two million Americans are victims of violent injury each year, and teens are twice as likely as adults to become victims of violent crimes. In schools, aggression is directed at people, with the most common acts of violence being pushing, stealing and insults.

Violence results from a combination of environmental factors including family, community and media,
as well as human physiology. It is never okay to be violent - every person deserves to feel safe. We can all help by not acting violently, learning to manage our anger, and standing up for other people.

• Abuse
• Bullying
• Dating Violence
• Family Violence

Last reviewed January 2008
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