Youth exposure to violence: Prevalence, risks, and consequences

Recent empirical work on the distribution, determinants, and consequences o f children and adolescents' witnessing of community violence are reviewed. Major findings across studies indicate that males, ethnic minorities, and u rban residents are at increased risk for witnessing violence, and that high er rates of PTSD, depression, distress, aggression, and externalizing behav ior disturbances are reported among those who witness violence. Degree of f amily conflict, domestic violence, and family support were demonstrated to modify the impact of exposure to violence. Research and policy recommendati ons are offered.