Warning Signs for Violence in Children and Adolescents

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• Social withdrawal
• Excessive feelings of isolation
• Excessive feelings of rejection
• Being a victim of violence
• Feelings of being picked on and persecuted
• Low school interest and poor academic performance
• Expression of violence in writings and drawings
• Uncontrolled anger
• Patterns of impulsive and chronic hitting, intimidating and bullying behaviors
• History of discipline problems
• Past history of violent and aggressive behavior
• Intolerance for differences and prejudicial attitudes
• Drug use and alcohol use
• Affiliation with gangs
• Access to, possession of, and use of firearms
• Serious threats of violence

Imminent Warning Signs for Violence

• Serious physical fighting with peers or family members
• Severe destruction of property
• Severe rage for seemingly minor reasons
• Detailed threats of lethal violence
• Announcing threats or plans for hurting others
• Self-injurious behaviors or threats of suicide

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