Safe Start: How Early Experiences Can Help Reduce Violence. An Ounce of Prevention Fund Paper.

Noting that many communities have overlooked a promising approach to reducing violence in the United States, this report examines early risk factors for violence and discusses the potential of prevention and intervention programs for children ages birth to 5 years. The report defines violence and discusses the importance of early experiences in learning self-control for predisposing the child to respond appropriately to future situations. Early risk factors for violence are described: (1) child abuse and neglect; (2) witnessing violence; and (3) brain damage resulting from severe physical abuse or prenatal drug exposure. The report further presents promising interventions, including home visiting and parent support programs, early childhood education and care, and services for children who witness or who are the targets of violence. The report concludes that research on effective interventions provides hope that communities can substantially reduce violence by investing in young children and their families. (Contains 19 reference notes.) (KB)