In listening to current news stories, it’s not unusual to hear that a 12 or 14 year old has shot a friend or family member because they are irritated for one reason or another. What happens to a child to warrant such acts? Is the behavior a result of societal norms, lack of parenting, a mental illness? Is the brain or conscience not yet developed enough to comprehend the wrongness and finality of shooting someone? At such an early age, can mental health intervention be useful or is this mind-set likely to be permanent?

Pathological family and individual dynamics characterize all of these events. The murders occur when a series of destabilizing events result in a breakdown of existing intra- and interpersonal tension-reducing mechanisms. Murders of parents and siblings by those under 18 years of age are mostly committed by non-psychotic males (about 90%) who have often been severely physically and/or psychologically abused and often show evidence of non-psychotic emotional illness (anti-social behavior disorder and conduct disorder). A small percentage show evidence of major mental illness (schizophrenia and paranoid personality). The presence of guns in the home is a major risk factor. Children who are not grossly impaired by mental deficit and/or mental illness can comprehend the wrongness of murder, although a fully developed capacity to emotionally comprehend the finality of death may not be present until mid or late adolescence. Mental health intervention at any early age can be useful if it can be implemented. When family members, teachers, clergy or neighbors help identify troubled youth and abusive relationships, therapeutic intervention may become possible. These interventions may include individual and family psychotherapy, medications, intervention by the courts and sometimes separation of the vulnerable and at-risk individuals. 

Nathan M. Simon, M.D.
Director, Schiele Clinic of the
St. Louis Psychoanalytic Institute
314-361-7075, ext 444

Misconceptions about the rate of violent juvenile crime persist. Despite news reports that suggest a rise in youth violence, statistics actually point to a reduction in juvenile crime. That said, each year, millions of youth between the ages of 10 and 18 are arrested; one million are formally handled by the juvenile justice system. Those incarcerated are disproportionately youth of color and 50% to 75% have a diagnosable mental health disorder. Many have committed non-violent offences. What brings youth to the point of crime or violence is complex. Here are some factors:

·        Scientific research on adolescent brain development proves that teens differ from adults in their ability to reason, think and control impulses.

·        In 2002, the U.S. Secret Service released the Safe School Initiative, which showed that many of the “attackers” in school shootings reported being bullied, persecuted or injured by others. In several cases, these individuals had experienced bullying and harassment that was long-standing and severe.

·        A lack of community-based services and after school programs leaves youth feeling isolated and with nowhere to turn. Hours after school are the riskiest for youth. Children left unsupervised are found to be the most likely to get into trouble from 2 to 6 p.m.  Research states that quality after-school activities not only cut crime but also promote learning. 

The National Mental Health Association advocates for greater investments in prevention, early intervention, access to adequate mental health services and diversion programs to promote the well-being and safety of all children, youth and families. For more information visit www.nmha.org.

Hazel Moran
Associate Director, Juvenile Justice
National Mental Health Association

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