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Urban children's perceptions of violence
Karen Sheehan1, Lynn E Kim, John P Galvin
1Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Children's Memorial Hospital, and Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60614, USA. ksheehan@northwestern.edu
Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine
|January 7, 2004
Summary
Preadolescent children define violence broadly, including emotional harm and verbal aggression, not just physical acts. Sex differences emerged, with girls more aware of intimate-partner violence than boys.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Sociology of Violence
- Public Health
Background:
- Understanding children's perceptions of violence is crucial for effective prevention strategies.
- Preadolescent urban children are exposed to various forms of violence, impacting their development and well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore how preadolescent urban children conceptualize and experience violence.
- To identify themes and variations in children's understanding of violence, including sex-based differences.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study utilizing focus groups with preadolescent children (ages 8-12).
- Semistructured scripts guided discussions, with sessions audiotaped or videotaped.
- Data analyzed for recurring themes in children's perceptions of violence.
Main Results:
- Children defined violence more broadly than adults, encompassing emotional harm (e.g., lying, cheating) and verbal aggression (e.g., cursing, yelling).
- Girls expressed significant concern about intimate-partner violence, a concept largely unrecognized by boys.
- Most children felt safe at home but unsafe at school, relying on trusted adults for safety.
Conclusions:
- Researchers and program designers must consider children's broader definitions of violence and potential sex differences, particularly regarding intimate-partner violence.
- Engaging adult family members is recommended for violence-prevention programs, as children often seek safety from them.