Child Exposure to Violence as a Public Health Emergency.

Children's exposure to violence is a national crisis. The high prevalence of exposure to violence in infancy and early childhood has implications for lifelong health and development because early experiences are most influential in shaping the structure and functioning of the brain, the quality of attachments and other relationships, and the child's readiness to explore and learn. The authors highlight the urgency of creating effective approaches to identification and treatment as well as public policy initiatives that protect both children and society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]