Overview
Youth violence refers to harmful behaviors that can start early and continue into young adulthood. The young person can be a victim, an offender, or a witness to the violence.
Youth violence includes various behaviors. Some violent acts—such as bullying, slapping, or hitting— can cause more emotional harm than physical harm. Others, such as robbery and assault (with or without weapons), can lead to serious injury or even death.
Why is youth violence a public health problem?
Youth violence is widespread in the United States (U.S.). It is the third leading cause of death for young people between the ages of 15 and 24.
- In 2012, 4,787 young people aged 10 to 24 years were victims of homicide—an average of 13 each day
- Over 599,000 young people aged 10 to 24 years had physical assault injuries treated in U.S. emergency departments—an average of 1642 each day.
- In a 2013 nationwide survey, about 24.7% of high school students reported being in a physical fight in the 12 months before the survey.
- In 2013, 19.6% of high school students reported being bullied on school property and 14.8% reported being bullied electronically.
How does youth violence affect health?
Deaths resulting from youth violence are only part of the problem. Many young people need medical care for violence-related injuries. These injuries can include cuts, bruises, broken bones, and gunshot wounds. Some injuries, like gunshot wounds, can lead to lasting disabilities.
Violence can also affect the health of communities. It can increase health care costs, decrease property values, and disrupt social services.