NCJ Number
232287
Journal
Psychology of Violence Volume: 1 Dated: August 2010 Pages: 3-12
Date Published
August 2010
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This article examines the issue of youth violence from a gender perspective with gender identified as a crucial factor in understanding aggression and violence in boys and in developing approaches to address the problem.
Abstract
This article discusses the phenomenon of youth violence from a psychology of gender perspective. Although other factors are discussed, including gun availability, violence-related media influence, family and caretaker factors, and effects of teasing and bullying, the intention is to highlight the thinking on the potential relationship between boys' traditional masculine socialization experiences and violence. In this new perspective, traditional masculine socialization estranges and isolates many boys from their genuine inner lives and vital connections to others, which is theorized to heighten their risk of engaging in acts of violence. The authors identify school and community programs that may be helpful in counteracting damaging socialization experiences and supporting boys' healthier emotional and psychological development. Finally, the article discusses approaches that psychologists and other mental health professionals can use to help address this vital issue. References (Published Abstract)