What impact can witnessing violence have on youth?

Witnessing violence can have profound negative effects on youth, often leading to feelings of fear, anxiety, and confusion. One significant outcome is the tendency to develop anti-social behavior. This might manifest as aggression, withdrawal, or difficulty in forming healthy relationships. Children and adolescents exposed to violence may learn to mimic violent behaviors or adopt a worldview that normalizes such actions, believing they are acceptable responses to conflict.

In contrast, the other options imply positive outcomes that are generally not associated with witnessing violence. Trust in adults, social development, and creativity are typically fostered in nurturing environments that promote safety and stability, which are compromised by exposure to violence. Therefore, recognizing the risk of anti-social behavior as a consequence of witnessing violence highlights the importance of providing support and intervention for affected youth.