Urban violence can be a daily stressor for many families. Research shows that about 60% of American children are exposed to violence, crime, or abuse at home, school, or in their community, and nearly 40% experience two or more violent acts in a single year (Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention [OJJDP], 2015). Children in low-income urban neighborhoods are at even greater risk (Finkelhor et al., 2015).

The Impact

Exposure to violence increases the likelihood of anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and post-traumatic stress disorder (Healthy People 2030, n.d.). These effects may continue into adulthood, influencing education, relationships, and health outcomes.

Evidence-Based Strategies

1. Leverage Prevention Frameworks.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2024a) recommend community-wide strategies such as promoting safe physical environments, engaging trusted adults, and supporting at-risk youth.

2. Strengthen Family Protective Factors.
Safe, stable, and nurturing relationships help buffer children from harmful effects of violence (CDC, 2024b). Families play a critical role in creating emotional security and resilience.

3. Support Through Policies and Community Solutions.
Combining mental health services, economic supports, and community partnerships is key to long-term solutions (CDC, 2024a).

What Parents Can Do

• Build stability at home. Keep routines predictable and maintain open communication.
• Use available resources. Parenting programs and community violence prevention initiatives, such as those highlighted by the CDC, can provide guidance and support (CDC, 2024a).
• Advocate for change. Support policies that increase affordable housing, safe schools, and accessible mental health care.
• Stay connected. Lean on schools, churches, and local groups for social and emotional support.

Conclusion

While urban violence creates significant challenges, parents can foster resilience by providing stability, nurturing relationships, and connecting to trusted community resources. Evidence shows that even in violent environments, strong family and community support can help children thrive.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024a). Community violence prevention: Resource for action. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/community-violence/prevention/index.html

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024b). About community violence. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/community-violence/about/index.html

Finkelhor, D., Turner, H., Shattuck, A., & Hamby, S. (2015). Children’s exposure to violence, crime, and abuse: An update. Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh176/files/pubs/248547.pdf

Healthy People 2030. (n.d.). Children exposed to violence. Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. https://health.gov/healthypeople

Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. (2015). Children’s exposure to violence, crime, and abuse: An update. U.S. Department of Justice. https://www.ojp.gov/program/programs/cev