Finally, poor parenting skills are strongly linked to childhood violence. Obviously, both play a role. Data from programs like Head Start and early childhood nurse home visitation programs have demonstrated that these programs reduced violent crime later in life and were cost-effective. Thus, regardless of genetic make-up, early intervention can positively impact a child's behavior. However, other studies that focused on rehabilitation of violent juveniles have shown poor results, suggesting that once a child establishes a pattern of behavior, there is less likelihood of reversing it.
Aggressive behavior is a normal characteristic of children, particularly boys.
However, most children learn the control of impulses and violent behavior with maturation. If a child observes or experiences sexual or physical abuse, he will often repeat it as an adult. If the parents are not present, through absence or neglect, the child may have no models for impulse control and may act violently as an adult. One focus of the Jonesboro shootings has been on the age at which prosecutors try juveniles as adults. Another related issue in Pulaski County is the perceived need for more jail cells.