To better understand
Violence is much more than just physically assaulting someone. It is defined as “any intentional demonstration of verbal, written, physical, psychological or sexual force with the objective to distress, injure, hurt, or oppresses a person by attacking their psychological or physical integrity or well-being, or their rights or property” (source: MEES, 2019).
The prevalence and severity of violence among teenagers cannot be denied. Whether it is online or offline, violence in the form of rumours or exclusion (indirect aggression) is just as bad as punches and threats (direct aggression). The many consequences of violence, especially bullying, on physical and mental health, well-being, and academic success are well known. They affect everyone involved, whether directly or indirectly: the victim, the perpetrator, the witnesses, and even family and friends.
As parents, we all want our teenagers to have equal, happy and respectful relationships. The development of social and emotional management skills, respect for others, and safe, caring environments are important factors that contribute to reducing violence.
Violence of any kind must never be tolerated.
Violence and teens in the Montérégie region
- 38% of boys and 26 % of girls say they have experienced violence at school or on the way to school;
- At school or on the way to school, 28 % of teens have experienced verbal threats, 10 % physical aggression, 4 % aggression by gang members and 2 % taxing.
- 6% of teens have experienced cyberbullying;
- Only one-quarter say they have never experienced or committed an act of violence;;
- 67 % of girls and 60 % of boys admit to having committed an indirect act of violence (talking behind someone’s back, excluding someone from the group, starting a rumour, etc.).
Want to learn more?
Check out our information sheets for more statistics, key facts, and solutions for families, schools, and communities.
Better support
Active listening means listening to your teen, asking their opinion, giving them straightforward answers, and making sure you’ve understood them. For more information, see Mosaïk capsule no. 8, S’intéresser à son jeune, c’est l’écouter!
Tips and tricks
Do not tolerate violence of any kind: As the adult, you need to be able to recognize it, step in, and seek help.
In short
Even though the number of teenagers experiencing violence has decreased in recent years, it is still a reality for too many. When it comes to violence, it is everybody’s business. There is zero tolerance!
Practical resources and tools
1. To support you :
Are you dealing with a situation that worries you? Ask for help:
If you fear for your teen’s or your own safety, call 911 or your local police department.
The police service can also be a useful point of reference, particularly for the prevention of street gangs, violence, bullying, delinquency, and other offenses.
Last updated
: