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Parents: Beware of this troubling teen trend

On Behalf of | Jan 31, 2023 | Criminal Law, Domestic Violence |

Trends come and go overnight with teenagers. Often, they are harmless and have little long-term impact. However, some trends teens engage in can completely change the trajectory of their future. This is especially true when it comes to a recent troubling trend: increased violence among young people.

Moving in the wrong direction

According to reports, between January 2021 and November 2022, over 580 teens and 20-somethings were involved in stabbings in Toronto. Police say recent data like this suggests violent criminal behaviour among teens is rising, and increasingly, young girls are involved. 

Several factors could be to blame for the increase. Sociologists, police and others believe that teen violence is rising due to:

  • Increased isolation during the pandemic
  • Using social media and digital technologies to make criminal connections
  • Mental health issues
  • Lack of access to community resources

Combined, these elements could make it easier for kids to engage in dangerous behaviour and meet up with people they wouldn’t normally associate with.

Important takeaways for parents of teens

If you have a teenager, your biggest fear could be getting a call from the police saying your child is in trouble and accused of a crime. No parent wants their child to be in this situation.

While you may understandably be disappointed and upset, it is crucial that you act quickly to protect your child from unnecessarily harsh penalties and wrongful allegations. Your child could face lifelong consequences from a youthful mistake, so contacting a lawyer immediately to discuss your options can be wise.

It is also worth noting that February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness month in Canada, and the same factors we mentioned above could contribute to violent interactions between partners. As such, now is a good time to recognize the seriousness of personal relationships that involve assault and violence – even among teenagers.

A criminal charge or domestic violence accusation could take a tremendous toll on your child’s future. Understanding the risk factors and how important it is to defend against charges can help you and your child overcome this difficult situation.

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