Myth: Teenagers are safer from violence than adults

Fact: Teenagers are two and a half times more likely than adults to be victims of violence.¹

Myth: People usually get shot or killed by someone they do not know.
Fact: More than half of the homicides of adults and more than 75% of the homicides of teenagers involve people who know each other.¹

Myth: Carrying a gun makes you safer. If you have a gun, people won't bother you.
Fact: In a survey of kids who had been injured by violence, 35% of the victims were carrying guns when they themselves were shot.

Myth: Most homicide victims are killed by someone of another race.
Fact: The perpetrator and victim are of the same race about 90% of the time.

Myth: Violence helps you earn and maintain respect.
Fact: Respect is earned by displaying good character traits, such as being kind, warm, friendly, honest, and respectful.

Myth: Violence solves problems. Some guys just don't understand, and you've got to show them.
Fact: Violent solutions only bring short-term peace and often lead to more violence. Real peace is reached through careful talking and consideration of others.

Myth: If you don't fight, you're a chicken.
Fact: Walking away is smart. Bold actions have been done and will continue to be done by people who support non-violence, such as Martin Luther King, Jr. and Mahatma Gandhi.

Myth: Being violent gives you a good reputation.
Fact: To be successful in life, you must put your personal safety first. Resolving conflict non-violently increases your chances for a long healthy life.

Myth: Joining a gang gives you protection.
Fact: Joining a gang increases your chances of being put into jail or getting hurt. It may also put your family at risk for getting hurt.

Myth: Drinking and taking drugs are okay as long as you don't lose control.
Fact: More than half of violent acts involve someone who has taken drugs or alcohol.

Myth: You can't do anything to stop violence.
Fact: Avoid weapons. Walk away from fights. Do not take drugs or drink alcohol. Stop violent acts. Practice personal safety.

¹Yung BR, Hammond RW. PACT: Positive Adolescent Choices Training. Champaign (IL): Research Press 1995.