In order to ensure a comprehensive approach to youth violence prevention, the Massachusetts Youth Violence Prevention Program (MYVPP) focuses on multiple dimensions of youth violence including: school violence, gang violence, self-inflicted violence, child and sexual abuse, teen dating violence, bullying/harassment, fighting, weapon-related violence, workplace violence, and sexual violence. The program's approach to violence prevention is grounded in a youth development framework and is designed to address key risk behaviors that are often associated with violence including alcohol use, illicit drug use, and high-risk sexual behavior.

In addition, the MYVPP also addresses shared risk and protective factors on multiple levels including individual, family, school, community, and peer group. The MYVPP works closely with the Massachusetts Coalition for Youth Violence Prevention (MCYVP). This coalition consists of over 30 different community-based organizations, academic centers, faith-based organizations, research organizations and state agencies representing multiple facets of youth violence prevention. The coalition's structure and objectives are designed to facilitate communication and collaboration among members through the sharing of knowledge, experience, and resources related to youth violence prevention. The MYVPP and MCYVP have partnered to develop a strategic plan for youth violence prevention that will be completed by early 2007.

For additional information regarding the MYVPP or the MCYVP, please email Leonard.lee@state.ma.us or call 617-624-5430.



This information is provided by the Violence Prevention and Intervention Services within the Department of Public Health.