Avoid turf battles by working toward cooperative solutions. Acknowledge that it may take effort to enlist the support of parents for volunteer programs that are perceived as time-intensive, due to the time constraints many families live under. Outreach may be needed to overcome parental resistance to attending parenting skills classes. Enlist the media to help spread the word in creative ways that engage target populations. Remain proactive, not reactive.
Reactive measures don t address the underlying causes of violence and don t promote positive norms.
Nor do such efforts involve students as part of the solution. Graphic films about violence may backfire and actually glamorize guns or fighting. Remember that effective efforts are long-term and comprehensive. Accept that there is no easy cure for violence. Gang members may have high self-esteem but lack the skills needed to avoid resolving conflicts violently.