Youth Exposure to Crime and Violence: Its Effects and Implications for Intervention

Abstract

A growing proportion of urban youth are at high risk for exposure to extreme acts of crime or violence. This article reviews the literature on the relationship between exposure to crime and violence and the development of post-traumatic stress reactions, as well as current assessment methods which have been used to evaluate children’s and adolescents’ exposure to crime and violence. The need for treatment strategies to deal with this growing problem is discussed as well. Based on research findings an intervention model is presented which uses exposure-based exercises as well as cognitive and behavioral procedures that can be readily implemented by a school counselor in a group format.