Warning Signs for Violence

Source: National School Safety Center and Bay Area therapists.

It is impossible to predict which young people will turn violent, but certain behaviors have been identified as risk factors. Parents should consider it a warning sign if a child:

Displays cruelty to animals.

Prefers reading materials and entertainment that express violent themes. Reflects anger, frustration and the dark side of life in school essays or in art work.

Has a history of uncontrollable, angry outbursts.

Has threatened suicide.

Has a sudden change in appearance or in behavior, such as sleeping excessively or becoming cut off from longtime friends.