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The level of violence in American society has become an important political and public health concern. Violence encompasses a wide range of behaviors that involve the exertion of physical or psychological force in order to injure or abuse. It is a complex behavior and, like all behaviors, it occurs in the context of culture. The causes of violence and the various ways in which it becomes manifest are influenced by the prevailing attitudes of society and society's perspective on the aims and legitimacy of particular forms of violence. The article addresses the various theories of aggression and violence, diagnostic issues related to victimization by violence, and therapeutic concerns in treating both victims and perpetrators of violence. Biologic, psychological, and sociocultural perspectives on violence may contribute to conceptual distinctions such as nonhostile aggression versus hostile destructiveness. Violence affects the same racial and cultural groups most likely to have limited access to medical care or who are more resistant to using mental health services. The therapeutic approach to these problems is influenced by the nature of the trauma and the wishes of the patient requiring the commitment and expertise of care providers. Those who act violently need clinicians willing to explore the meaning of the violent act and to respond with understanding rather than with a judgmental attitude. |
