In the increasingly violent times that the U.S. is experiencing, it has been observed that children in some areas are terrorized by street violence. Gang warfare can easily turn a quiet neighborhood into a war zone, where children might become inadvertent victims. Although some children can’t cope with the fear, a few are able to rise above it and confidently move ahead.

What are risk factors for children to become involved in gang activity?

Describe some of the effects of gang violence on children.

Describe some of the characteristics of children who grow stronger by surviving in these environments.

Discuss how parents in these neighborhoods could foster these characteristics in growing children.