week 14/Ch.13

Chapter 13 discusses topics pertaining to violence and safety. Injuries can be intentional or unintentional. Unintentional injuries include events such as fires or car accidents and are the number one cause of death. Intentional injuries such as suicide or homicide are the second and third leading causes of death. Personally, it is quite scary to me that the top three causes of death involve injury and violence. That’s why this chapter was helpful in informing us about these events, that way they can be as preventable as possible.

Unfortunately, violence is very prevalent in our society right now. These past few years have been very trying for Americans as our nation has faced multiple school shootings and the controversy surrounding police brutality towards African Americans. Violence results from aggression, which can be primary or reactive. Extreme violence and harm can derive from anger, depression, or actions motivated by hate and revenge. The most infamous act of violence for us as a nation would be the terrorist attack that occurred on September 11th, 2001.

There are several types of violence that can occur including domestic, child abuse, hate crimes, sexual, and even elder abuse.

There are several things we can do to protect ourselves from harm and violence. This day in age, with the popularity of social media rising, it is important to be mindful of what we post for the world to see, and also who we interact with. If you are ever physically attacked or fear that you will be, you should maintain a confident stance and try not to show the perpetrator that you fear them.

Motor vehicle accidents are incredibly common, and too many of them result in a death. Driving is a privilege and a great responsibility. When you get behind the wheel, you have the ability to harm yourself and others. To best prevent that from happening, you should never, ever drive and text or drive while you are impaired- not only by alcohol or drugs, but by emotions such as depression or rage.

The world is a scary place, and there are many ways that harm and injury can find us. However, if we understand the potential causes of harm and how we can prevent them, we will be more likely to live safe and healthy lives.