In Session: Practicing Clinical Skills to Prevent Other-Directed Violence in Children and Adolescents

Course overview

Youth violence is among the leading causes of death and injuries in the U.S. It is the third leading cause of death for youth between the ages of 10 and 24 years old (World Health Organization, 2020). It is also a global health problem as 42% of worldwide homicides each year occur among young people between 10 and 29 years old (World Health Organization, 2020). If you have not participated in in-depth training on the prevention of other-directed violence in children and adolescents, we recommend that you review our other courses about prevention of other-directed violence in children and adolescents first. After learning about evidence-based approaches for the prevention of other-directed violence in children and adolescents, you can then use this simulation to reinforce your knowledge. The goal of this course is to provide addictions, behavioral health counseling, marriage and family therapy, psychology, and social work professionals in health and human services settings with an opportunity to apply your existing knowledge of clinical skills to prevent other-directed violence in children and adolescents. Note: As you proceed through this practice opportunity, bear in mind that due to time constraints, this course presents a highly-abbreviated version of what a violence risk assessment would involve. You would normally also review multiple sources of information, use standardized screening measures, consult with a supervisor or colleagues as needed, and do an in-depth inquiry to formulate risk determination and plan interventions.