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Interventions Targeting Exposure to Community Violence Sequelae Among Youth: A Commentary

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Abstract

This article provides an overview of the youth psychosocial deficits associated with exposure to community violence. The vast majority of articles in the extant literature primarily highlight the mental health deficits associated with such exposures, although a growing body of research documents that school engagement challenges, problematic peer relations, substance use, and increased sexual risk behaviors are associated with such incidences. This study brings together these disperse literatures. Next, we provide an overview of well- and lesser-established interventions that have been utilized by social workers and other mental health providers to curtail the negative effects of exposure to community violence. More importantly, we discuss how well these interventions match the empirically-identified sequelae associated with community violence exposure. We conclude with social work practice and intervention recommendations based on our commentary.

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  1. School of Social Service Administration, University of Chicago, 969 East 60th Street, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA

    Dexter R. Voisin & Kathryn R. Berringer

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  1. Dexter R. Voisin
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Correspondence to Dexter R. Voisin.

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Voisin, D.R., Berringer, K.R. Interventions Targeting Exposure to Community Violence Sequelae Among Youth: A Commentary. Clin Soc Work J 43, 98–108 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10615-014-0506-1

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