by Daniel J. Flannery (Get the Book)Flannery (psychology, Institute for the Study of Prevention of Violence, Kent State Univ.) weaves a tapestry of current thinking, research, and vignettes on how children and adolescents cope with violence and how to support their mental health. Looking at his subject from a developmental perspective, the author examines aggression, bullying, delinquency, conduct disorders, and violence (in dating, gangs, and the media). After reviewing brain development, he explores how nature, socialization, exposure to violence, and parenting impact a child's potential for violence. He is concerned about the stress of exposure to violence--both as a witness and as a victim--and in that connection he discusses the Children Who Witness Violence Program. He also discusses school safety and looks at the rates of homicide, suicide, school violence, and bullying. Flannery summarizes clues to identifying youth who plan to attack others at school and discusses how school disciplinary policies that are rooted in punishment and exclusion can contribute to violence. By way of guidance, he includes suggestions for practice and policy that may help those working with child violence and its consequences (post-traumatic stress, suicide risk, and depression). These include supporting resilience through problem solving, hope, and self-efficacy. --Choice
