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 Association 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 Association 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.

Book sponsored in part by American Humane Association

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.

Topics include:

• The history of scientific study of children and animals
• Empathy
• Animal abuse, violent offending, and Conduct Disorder
• Physical, emotional, and sexual abuse and animal abuse
• Promising prevention and intervention programs

To read more about this book and to order, click here.

Learn more about the Link. . .

Violence to People and Animals: An Important Link

Online resources

How to Build a Successful Community Coalition (PDF)

Lost Boys: Why Our Sons Turn Violent and How We Can Save Them (PDF)

One More Thing for Teachers to Do? Why and How Educators Should Develop Students' Empathy and Humanity (PDF)

The Relationship Between Violence Against Children and Animals (PDF)