Reversing real-life violence desensitization in children

Author(s): Yasmin Al-Zubi*

The result of ongoing exposure to violence leads to desensitization, thus damaged perception of typical interactions and relationships. The growing issue of desensitization to any form of violence is leading to alarming consequences in the overall health of the community. Children who are witnesses or even victims to real-life violence, particularly domestic violence, are experiencing a desensitization to the violence. This consequence results in an altered perception of how others’ experience pain and whether or not violence is a solution. The literature lacks research on real-life violence desensitization and mostly focuses on violence desensitization achieved through media, such as movies and videogames. The gap in the literature of desensitization to real-life violence needs to be addressed in order to overcome this issue that is being more common. Are we able to reverse the effects of desensitization in such a sensitive setting of real-life violence, or is it a permanent alteration? This paper will not include the methodology of the study as the study is still being conducted.

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