Nursery World - Children as young as seven can show early signs of 'gang violence'

A new series of reports call for early intervention to be made a priority to prevent children as young as seven at risk of gang involvement and youth violence turning to crime.

Published by the Early Intervention Foundation (EIF), the reports – an analysis of existing evidence - reveal that early signs of gang and youth violence can be picked up by the age of seven, with those displaying troublesome and aggressive behaviour most likely to go on to commit youth offences.

Other risk factors include low achievement in primary school, hyperactivity and growing up in ‘troubled’ families with a history of family violence and long-term unemployment.

The first report, a review of risk and protective factors, was undertaken by Cordis Bright Consulting. The second report, put together by the EIF, looks at effective and ineffective interventions delivered in the UK.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included