Research Reviews will address a number of violence prevention topics. The intent of the Reviews is to provide research based information to you . You may use this information freely, however, we do ask that you credit Washington State University as the reference. Risk factors are individual or environmental hazards that increase a person's likelihood to be involved in or become a victim of violence. However, in addition to recognizing risk factors, it is important to identify protective factors that contribute to preventing violence.
Poverty is the worst form of violence.
Research has shown that poverty is a significant risk factor related to violence. The number of Americans living below the federal poverty line has been increasing since 1979. During this time period, violence rates also began to rise. Lack of employment opportunities can lead to a sense of hopelessness and despair. In communities that lack strong neighborhoods, children may not be viewed as a community responsibility and, therefore, not provided with intervention programs or activities.