Helping to curb youth violence: The APA-MTV "Warning Signs" initiative

This article describes how the joint American Psychological Association (AP A)-Music Television "Warning Signs" initiative evolved, its nationwide impa ct, and the history of APA's 4-year "Talk to Someone Who Can Help" effort t hat provided the basis for it. "Warning Signs," aimed at helping the nation 's youth to identify the warning signs of violent behavior and to recognize the need to seek professional help, has brought new levels of visibility t o APA's public education campaign. It has greatly energized and mobilized p sychologists nationwide for expanded practitioner involvement at both the n ational and community levels. Not only has the project responded to the cal l for national prevention efforts to curb youth violence, but it also has s erved as an effective medium for educating youth, adults, and their communi ties about the value of psychology.