Original URL: http://life.familyeducation.com/safety/parenting/29709.html

Violent Kids: Warning Signs

Communities across the country have searched for reasons why some kids become violent. Ken Trump of the acclaimed National School Safety and Security Services believes that major stressors can send a child over the brink: domestic violence, alcohol and drugs, and social and academic pressures.

Here are Trump's top warning signs that parents and educators should keep in mind when considering a troubled child:

• Detachment — a lack of bonding and "connectedness" to others

• Withdrawal, or feelings of hopelessness

• Threats of violence, and efforts to establish the means and opportunity to carry them out

• Significant changes in behavior, appearance, etc.

• Disciplinary problems in school, and/or delinquent, criminal activity in school or the community

• Unusual interest in, or preoccupation with, weapons, bombs, and violent entertainment (music, movies, etc.)

• Abuse of animals, suicide threats or attempts, self-mutilation, etc.