Understanding and Preventing Violent Behaviour
- A Marsden
- Jun 23
- 2 min read
Violence among young people is something no parent wants to imagine their child being involved in — but sadly, it’s a growing concern in many communities and schools. Whether it’s physical fights, aggressive language, threats, or carrying weapons, violent behaviour puts young people at risk and damages their confidence, safety, and future.
At Compass Education, we work with schools to help students manage emotions, solve problems peacefully, and feel connected enough to avoid violence. But parents and carers play a crucial role too. The more young people feel safe, heard, and supported at home, the less likely they are to get drawn into violence.
Why Violent Behaviour Happens
Violent behaviour rarely happens “out of nowhere.” It’s often the result of a mix of factors:
✔ Anger, frustration, or feeling disrespected
✔ Peer pressure or feeling the need to “prove” themselves
✔ Fear — believing violence keeps them safe
✔ Low confidence in dealing with conflict calmly
✔ Exposure to violence in their community, online, or at home
For some teenagers, carrying a weapon or using violence feels like a way to stay safe — but in reality, it puts them and others at much greater risk.
What You Can Do to Support Them
Your influence as a parent or carer is one of the most important protective factors in your child’s life. You can help them stay safe and make positive choices.
Here’s how to guide your child away from violence:
✔ Talk openly about feelings. Help them express anger, frustration, or fear in words, not actions. Phrases like, “It’s OK to feel angry — but it’s never OK to hurt someone,” can really stick.
✔ Discuss peer pressure. Encourage your child to think for themselves. Talk through how to walk away from trouble and avoid situations that could escalate.
✔ Model calm problem-solving. Show them how you manage frustration or disagreement without resorting to aggression. Young people watch adults closely.
✔ Be clear about consequences. Make sure they understand the serious consequences of violent behaviour — including police involvement, exclusion from school, and harm to themselves or others.
✔ Know where they are and who they’re with. Staying involved in your child’s life — even as they grow more independent — reduces the chances of them getting drawn into risky situations.
✔ Look for warning signs. Changes in mood, secrecy, unexplained injuries, or talk of “needing protection” could all be red flags that your child is feeling unsafe or under pressure.
Where to Find More Support
If you’re worried your child is involved in violence — or at risk — don’t wait. Speak to their school’s pastoral team or local youth support services.
Useful resources:
With your support, your child can learn to handle conflict safely, stay away from violence, and build a future they can be proud of.
Comments