Suicide attempts or ideation, fascination with death, weapons, and violence as well as cruelty to animals or people are bad signs. These behaviors are not normal and should always be considered worthy of attention by parents. Don't believe it when you hear people say that there was no indication that a person would do something like this. I've looked into nearly three hundred homicides and there are always warning signs. Finally, stay involved with your children.
Desperate people commit desperate acts.
When children see a future, have hope, and know they do not stand alone in this sometimes frightening world, they are less likely to pursue acts of desperation and more likely to believe they can endure current struggles. Family unity and involvement fosters a realistic perspective on life and can help one endure a frightening world. I propose we adults are reaping the fruits of years of neglect of our children, lack of attention to them, irresponsibility in how we treat them, and cultivation of a violent culture. However, we don't have to throw our hands up in despair. As I told our school superintendent, the starting place for change is at home.