Mercado-Crespo MC, Coulter ML, Bryant C, Borum R, Perrin KM, Nodarse-Hernández K. Christian Churches and the Prevention of Preadolescent Aggression and Violence in Puerto Rico: Regional Leaders' Perspective.
JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2021;
60:4061-4081. [PMID:
34128183 PMCID:
PMC8202537 DOI:
10.1007/s10943-021-01304-8]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Preadolescents' involvement in religious congregations may serve as a distal protective factor against aggression. Interviews were conducted to explore Puerto Rico (PR) Christian church and faith-based organization (FBO) leaders' knowledge and perceptions about preadolescent violence, and the role of congregations in its prevention. Bullying was perceived as the most common type of aggression among PR preadolescents. Education, positive role modeling, and relationships with pro-social adults are considered important in its prevention. While willing to engage in violence prevention efforts, congregations may possess limited knowledge on the topic and its relevance. Findings can help inform the development of collaborative research and prevention efforts at the family and community levels.
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