Depression and Teen Violence

While the causes and symptoms associated with depression and teen violence are well known, doctors and researchers have yet to develop and implement a clear, uniform, tried and proven method that would eliminate and/or prevent depression and teen violence. The paper relates that one of the primary reasons depression and teen violence is extremely difficult to eliminate and/or prevent is that while depression and teen violence are often intertwined, individuals who suffer from depression may not exhibit symptoms of depression or violent tendencies until it is too late, i.e., until an unexpected, violent school shooting occurs. This paper analyzes and examines the multitude of issues related to depression and teen violence. Part II outlines the causes and symptoms associated with depression. In Part III, the relationship between depression and teen violence is explored. Finally, this paper concludes with recommendations eliminating and/or reducing depression and teen violence.

"Teen violence takes many forms, including assaults with or without weapons, emotional and physical bullying, gang violence, physical fights, school shootings, suicide, and threatening remarks. While teen violence has always been a problem in the United States, the number of deaths and serious injuries increased dramatically during the late 1980's and early 1990's, as more and more teens began carrying guns, knives, and other weapons. However, in recent years, fewer teens are carrying weapons, teen murder arrests have dropped by almost 60%, and the arrest rate for violent crimes is down 36% from its peak in 1994. In order to fully understand the nature and extent of teen violence, it is crucial to examine facts and statistics regarding the issue."