How can community violence be defined?

Community violence refers to interpersonal violence that is committed by members of the community who are not closely linked to the victim in any way. The rapid and horrifying onset of community violence often happens without any prior warning and often comes as a complete surprise.

Assaults in public areas, mugging, the sound of gunfire, the presence of gangs, drug usage, racial conflict, and other types of social dysfunction are all examples of community violence. Many sorts of community violence influence kids, including interpersonal conflicts (such as bullying, gang violence, shootings in public places, and other forms of “war-like” situations, spontaneous or terrorist assaults), as well as interpersonal problems between groups. Despite the fact that individuals may foresee certain painful occurrences, communal violence can strike at any time.

Mental and physical effects of community violence

Community violence not only claims lives but also leaves behind a legacy of suffering that lasts a lifetime. Preventing it is essential. Individuals and their families, as well as their whole communities, are affected by violence in many ways.

Community violence is a major public health issue. Injuries to the body and mental health, such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD, may result from acts of community violence.

Chronic illnesses are more likely to occur if you live in an area where there is a lot of community violence. Having a fear of violence may keep some individuals from participating in healthy habits like going for a walk, biking to work, or enjoying parks and recreational areas.

Violence frightens individuals from engaging in local activities, restricts economic development and profitability, stresses educational, legal, and medical institutions, and inhibits community advancement.

Effects of community violence on children

Children and their families who live in communities plagued by violence are more likely to see the world as a dangerous and frightening place. A young person’s life might be irreparably altered if he or she is shot or abused. Children who are exposed to violence on a regular basis may lose their feeling of security, leading them to go into “survival mode,” where they are prepared to fight or flee. Children’s views on life and self-control might be harmed by being exposed to violence in their community.

Social, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive development may be affected by growing up in an environment where violence is commonplace. Because it might undermine their feeling of security, families, and communities may struggle to maintain a sense of stability. It may take a toll on one’s physical and mental health if one lives in an area where violence is widespread. For youngsters who have been exposed to violence and trauma on a regular basis, the long-term psychological effects are incalculable.

Community violence has a long-term impact on the health of its victims. Including:

• High rates of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
• Victimization is associated with greater risks of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Higher levels of detachment, aggression, and drug use.
• Violence in the neighborhood has a negative effect on a child’s academic performance.

Get help today

If you or your family have been affected by and exposed to community violence it is important for you to get help. You and your family are not alone. To get help, call now or fill out the contact form below and click send.

References: 

• https://www.nctsn.org/what-is-child-trauma/trauma-types/community-violence
• https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/communityviolence/index.html#:~:text=Community%20violence%20happens%20between%20unrelated,schools%20and%20on%20the%20streets.
• https://teachtrauma.com/information-about-trauma/types-of-trauma/community-violence/