By Jonathan Spikes
Urban youth exposed to gang violence risk various social, emotional, academic, and behavioral consequences. Gang violence experiences among children and adolescents are also called adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), including exposure to violence in the community. Post-traumatic stress symptoms is another term used for youth exposed to gang violence to describe the emotional and behavioral symptoms that can be displayed following a gang-related incident. Gang violence can have a cumulative effect whereby children and adolescents can experience more severe life consequences when repeatedly exposed to violence. Such effects include the potential development of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD); depression, anxiety, and behavioral problems; neurological changes; physical impact on the body causing susceptibility to disease, academic issues, legal problems, and substance abuse.
Youth exposed to gang violence can display various emotional and behavioral symptoms that are often grouped into internalizing behaviors/symptoms and externalizing behaviors/symptoms. Some young people tend to express one of these behavior types more so than the other while some youth may exhibit both; however, both of these behavior types are associated with the effects of trauma or the manner in which the child/adolescent displays emotional stress after trauma. Internalizing behaviors typically include anxiety and depression symptoms, while externalizing behaviors include delinquency or acting out behaviors. Issues associated with the responses of parent/caretakers towards their child after exposure to gang violence is an area of much importance in regards to intervention and treatment delivery for this population of children. Often, parental attitudes can influence a child’s ability to cope and recover.
I believe investigating the impact of gang violence on youth is critical as this population needs immediate and effective interventions to prevent worsening symptoms. Affirming Youth Project SEEDS – HEALS is an intervention and treatment method necessary for the unique needs of children exposed to gang violence. PROJECT SEEDS – HEALS is a comprehensive approach that targets all areas of the young person’s life. Involving family members and loved ones in the treatment is essential in providing effective, comprehensive care to the children and adolescents.