Cure Violence

Public health approach to violence prevention

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Cure Violence is a public health initiative aimed at reducing violence in communities by treating it as a contagious disease. The program was founded in 2000 by Gary Slutkin, an epidemiologist who applied his experience in controlling infectious diseases to the problem of violence. The approach focuses on interrupting the transmission of violence, changing the behavior of the highest potential transmitters, and changing community norms.

History

Cure Violence was originally established in Chicago, Illinois, under the name "CeaseFire". The program was developed in response to the high rates of homicide and gun violence in the city. By employing strategies similar to those used in public health to combat infectious diseases, Cure Violence sought to "interrupt" the spread of violence by identifying and mediating potentially violent conflicts before they escalate.

Methodology

The Cure Violence model is based on three main components:

Interrupting Transmission

The first step in the Cure Violence model is to interrupt the transmission of violence. This is achieved by employing "violence interrupters," individuals who are often former gang members or individuals with a history of violence who have credibility within the community. These interrupters work to mediate conflicts and prevent retaliatory violence.

Identifying and Treating High-Risk Individuals

Cure Violence focuses on identifying individuals who are at the highest risk of being involved in violence, either as perpetrators or victims. These individuals are provided with support and resources to change their behavior, including counseling, job training, and educational opportunities.

Changing Community Norms

The program also aims to change community norms around violence. This involves engaging community leaders, organizing events, and conducting public education campaigns to promote non-violent conflict resolution and to shift attitudes towards violence.

Impact and Expansion

Since its inception, Cure Violence has been implemented in numerous cities across the United States and internationally. The program has been credited with significant reductions in violence in several communities. For example, evaluations of the program in Chicago have shown reductions in shootings and killings in areas where the program was active.

Cure Violence has also been adapted for use in other countries, including Honduras, South Africa, and Colombia, where it has been used to address issues of gang violence and community conflict.

Criticism and Challenges

While Cure Violence has been praised for its innovative approach, it has also faced criticism and challenges. Some critics argue that the program's reliance on former gang members as violence interrupters can be problematic, and there are concerns about the sustainability of funding and resources for the program.

Related pages

• Violence prevention
• Public health
• Epidemiology
• Community health