Brain development research offers some answers to why some children turn to violence and others do not. The contemporary view is that both nature and nurture are constantly at play in determining how a child develops. Bad experiences during a child's development can actually alter brain chemistry. The impact of altered brain chemistry may be reflected in an episode of violent behavior. A background of abuse and neglect can also exacerbate the challenges of adolescent behavior.
Adolescence is an unsettling period for all children.
It is not always surprising when some children become troublesome and defiant during adolescence. Alcohol has long been known to provoke aggression and violence in some people. 30 Adolescent substance abuse compounds otherwise normal aggressiveness and may isolate a child even more. A background of abuse and neglect, the struggles of adolescence, and substance abuse are all factors that a child may bring to school. Our schools are faced daily with some children who bring one or all of these problems from home.