In addition, preschoolers may be in child care programs that are located in areas where violent acts occur frequently. Although the early years are critical in setting the stage for future development, the experiences of the school years are also important to children's healthy growth. Children who have been victimized by or who have seen others victimized by violence may have trouble learning to get along with others. The anger that is often instilled in such children is likely to be incorporated into their personality structures. Carrying an extra load of anger makes it difficult for them to control their behavior and increases their risk for resorting to violent action.
Children learn social skills by identifying with adults in their lives.
To control their fears, children who live with violence may repress feelings. This defensive maneuver takes its toll in their immediate lives and can lead to further pathological development. It can interfere with their ability to relate to others in meaningful ways and to feel empathy. Individuals who cannot empathize with others' feelings are less likely to curb their own aggression, and more likely to become insensitive to brutality in general. Children who are traumatized by violence may have difficulty seeing themselves in future roles that are meaningful.