It has been recognized nationally that Teen Violence is a continually growing problem, yet the correct solution remains an even larger problem. However, if we look at the main causes behind the violence in today s teens, it may make the solution simpler.

One of the main causes for teen violence in America today is poverty. The 1995 Tuxemburg Income Study found the US raises three to eight times more children in poverty than other nations. Children growing up with the stresses of poverty are often left abused, alone, and angry, leaving them extremely likely to act violently. During the Great Depression, for example, murder rates skyrocketed, thus proving the relation between poverty and crime. Therefore, with a reduction of poverty, we would also see a reduction in violent crimes.

Other reasons for such a rise in teen violence would include easy access to drugs and guns, as well as the violent popular culture. By the age of 18, young people will have viewed an estimated 200,000 acts of violence on TV alone. This constant viewing certainly has an impact on the ways teens will handle their anger and respond in tough situations.

The lack of ethics taught in school and in the home also contributes. Children must be taught to respect others, as well as what is right and wrong. Everyone in community, especially the parents and schools, must be involved in teaching children morals at the earliest possible age. This lack of involvement has ultimately lead to this rise in teen violence. Parents are the first and most important teachers children have, reinforcing academic and behavioral lessons taught at school. Parental involvement is extremely vital in making the school environment safer, and the schools should make every effort to encourage this involvement.

Another strong reason for violence in the schools, is the lack of student-teacher communication. With the growing population in schools, it is difficult for the teacher to make contact with every student every day, however, the extra effort must be made. It is essential in assuring that the students are involved in school and in preventing and predicting future problems.

Overall, even as large as the teen violence problem may seem, the reasons behind it are simple and highly correctable. With everyone working together, it is possible to prevent future tragedies due to violent youth acts.