No one wants her child to become violent or to be a victim of violence.

Research shows that violent behavior is often learned early in life. That means there are many ways parents can prevent violence. Here are some of them:

• Provide consistent love and attention. If your child can count on you to be caring and spend time with him, he will learn to trust you. Children who have trusting relationships are less likely to become violent.

• Set a good example. When problems arise, show your child how to resolve them without violence. Don’t allow anyone in your home to hit—including adults.

• Keep your child from seeing violence on TV, in movies and in video games. If your child sees something violent, talk about it.

What did he see that was wrong? What else could have been done? What would be different if the violence happened in real life?

aap.org/family/parents/resist.htm (2/00).

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