The Link of Violence

Learn About The Link®

The Link between violence to people and animals has now been well-established. Child and animal protection professionals have recognized that abuse of both animals and children is linked within a self-perpetuating cycle. Statistics nationwide indicate that this Link is a problem of national concern, and breaking this cycle of violence has become a top priority for thousands of communities nationwide.

For more than a decade, American Humane has worked to educate both the general public and professionals about The Link between violence to people and animals through anti-violence campaigns, the facilitation of trainings and workshops across the nation and overseas, and the development of the first National Resource Center on The Link Between Violence to People and Animals. American Humane also continues to research this issue to develop useful and informative materials and publications for professionals and communities to help them better address issues related to The Link of Violence.

New book sponsored in part by American Humane

Children and Animals: Exploring the Roots of Kindness and Cruelty
by Frank Ascione

Research studies have shown that there is a correlation between animal abuse, child abuse, and domestic violence. When animals in a home are abused or neglected, it is a warning sign that others in the household may not be safe. In addition, children who witness animal abuse are at a greater risk of becoming abusers themselves. Dr. Frank Ascione, professor at Utah State University, has studied, written, and lectured extensively about the co-occurrence of animal abuse, youth violence, child abuse, and domestic violence within families.

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