Exposure to Violence
Violence, in particular, plays a significant role in how children develop emotionally, intellectually, and socially. Exposure to violence has been linked to any number of behavioral and mental health problems in children to include depression, anxiety, anger, post-traumatic stress disorder, alcohol and substance abuse, as well as decreased academic achievement and delinquency. In addition, children who experience violence, either as victims or witnesses, are at increased risk for becoming violent themselves or victims of violence. Studies have shown that children who experience or witness violence begin committing crimes at younger ages, commit nearly twice as many offenses and are arrested more frequently than children who have not been exposed to violence.
The Newport News Police Department in conjunction with the Newport News Public Schools has instituted the G.R.E.A.T. program. G.R.E.A.T. is an acronym for Gang Resistance Education And Training. This research-based program utilizes law enforcement officers in a classroom setting to prevent adolescent involvement in gangs, criminal behavior and violence. The officers serve as positive role models to the students. The instruction of life skills serves as the foundation of the program. The G.R.E.A.T. program helps youth avoid gang membership, prevent violence and criminal activity and develop a positive relationship with law enforcement.
In January 2005, the City formed a committee of representatives of city departments and community agencies to respond to growing concerns in Newport News about violence in our homes, schools and neighborhoods. Keeping Our Kids Safe: The Newport News Violence Prevention Network is a network of organizations and individuals committed to implementing an array of strategies to insure violence-free environments for children. The committee has developed a strategic plan to address community education and involvement, families, neighborhoods, learning environments and methods for monitoring the results.