What is a recommended way to advocate for the prevention of violence?

Advocating for the prevention of violence involves fostering a safe and supportive environment, which is precisely what welcoming new students accomplishes. This approach helps build a sense of community and belonging, which can significantly reduce feelings of isolation among individuals. When new students feel welcomed, they are more likely to engage positively with their peers, leading to stronger social bonds and decreased likelihood of conflict.

Creating a supportive environment encourages open communication and mutual respect, which can diminish the root causes of violence. This proactive strategy not only helps individuals feel valued but also establishes a culture of safety and support that dissuades violent behaviors.

In contrast, ignoring violent incidents does nothing to address the underlying issues and can allow those issues to fester. Participating in aggressive behavior only contributes to a cycle of violence and hostility. Joining gangs for protection seeks to address safety through intimidation and aggression, which ultimately perpetuates a culture of fear and violence rather than creating a solution.