In the past, law enforcement may have had a piece and mental health or school officials another piece. Without a strong, collaborative effort, children often fell through the cracks. Research is key to the process of understanding the problem and developing workable solutions. Data collection for the program is ongoing and University researchers will continue to provide insight to community officials who are grappling with the issue. Research has shown that one thing is certain a community of interested and involved individuals is the first and best step to stemming the tide of juvenile violence.
Children learn through observation and imitation.
When their impressionable minds are fed a steady diet of violence through the media, the result can be more aggressive behavior. Research indicates that at least 98 percent of American households have at least one television. By the time the average child is 18, he or she will have spent approximately 11,000 hours in the classroom and 20,000 hours watching television. The only thing children do more is sleep. Even the most innocent looking television programs can teach children that aggressive behavior is acceptable and normal.