Youth Gun Violence Research Paper

Words: 2470
Pages: 10

In Philadelphia, the statistics on youth gun violence are truly staggering. The fact that it stands as a leading cause of premature death among the city's youth is both heartbreaking and alarming. By highlighting the sheer number of lives claimed by such violence- over 38,000 each year, we can expose the magnitude of this crisis.Youth gun violence is unfortunately a common problem in Philadelphia. The statistics reveal that it affects a significant portion of the population. While exact numbers can be startling, it's important to remember that behind each number is a person whose life has been deeply impacted. Gun violence in the youth remains one of the major deaths in Philadelphia while being one of the major deaths for children. "The number …show more content…
It is important to recognize that media alone does not cause youth gun violence. Youth gun violence, in social violence, can desensitize young individuals to the consequences of violence and normalize aggressive behavior. Constant exposure to violent imagery can distort their perception of reality and contribute to a culture that glorifies violence which was founded through (Psychologists study potential harmful effects, n.d.). Societal factors such as poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunities can also contribute to youth gun violence. When young individuals feel marginalized or hopeless, they may turn to violence as a means of asserting power or gaining recognition. Addressing these underlying social issues is crucial in preventing youth gun violence; the lack of comprehensive gun control measures and loopholes in existing laws contribute to the accessibility of firearms for young individuals. Easy access to guns increases the likelihood of impulsive acts of violence and accidents involving firearms. To effectively address youth gun violence, society must take a multi-faceted approach. Addressing youth gun violence requires a multi-faceted approach, including improved access to mental health resources, community-based programs, stricter gun laws, and comprehensive education on conflict resolution. There are things individuals can do to help or reduce these things from happening: One way we can try to prevent this is to create a safe environment, which means encouraging responsible gun ownership and safe gun storage. By keeping guns away and educating others about the importance of gun safety, we can prevent accidental access. When building positive relationships with young people, we can become mentors and role models. "By offering support, guidance, and a sense of belonging, we can help steer them away from violence and into more constructive paths".