The American Psychoanalytic Association amidst the crisis of violence in our country takes the following position:
1) Although recent tragic shootings in schools, churches and community centers have brought the crisis of violence under intense public scrutiny, the APsaA views this crisis as long-standing and occurring each day in our communities. Violence is a major public health issue. In depth studies of its roots are often neglected by experts and the media.
2) Psychoanalytic treatment and research have shown that violent behavior is often rooted in childhood trauma connected to environmental factors such as poverty, child abuse and neglect. These factors cause early developmental problems in relationships. Biological factors must also be considered.
3) Many forms of violent behavior are treatable and can be prevented with appropriate intervention.
4) Because of the human potential for aggression, rage and loss of impulse control, the accessibility of guns in our country significantly contributes to the public health problem of violence, including homicide, suicide and mass murder.
5) The impact of violence is extremely harmful to the lives, development and growth of our children thereby contributing to the cyclical nature of this critical social problem.
6) That the psychological roots of violence in our communities cannot be seen in isolation to the violence being committed around the world in the form of war, genocide and ethnic cleansing often perpetrated by destructive but charismatic leaders.
7) The American Psychoanalytic Association, through its membership, public information, lobbying, educational programs, research, and liaison programs in our communities, is committed to working with other groups and experts to create viable solutions to the problem of violence in our country.
Approved by Executive Council
May, 2000 |