What health professionals should know - Core competencies for effective practice in youth violence prevention

Background: Youth violence has been identified as a critical health concern in the United States; however, few training resources are available for preparing health professionals to contribute to prevention efforts in their professional practices. Identification of core competencies for health professionals in youth violence prevention can be used to support the development of training resources in this area of professional practice. Methods: In 2001, experts in youth violence, health care, and health professional education from eight of the ten Academic Centers of Excellence on Youth Violence Prevention met to develop a list of core competencies that health professionals need for effective practice in youth violence prevention. Experts participated in a 2-day facilitated session to identify these competencies. Results: The group identified 40 core competencies that health professionals should acquire for effective practice in youth violence prevention. The competencies were organized across seven domains of practice and at three levels of expertise. Conclusions: Training is needed to prepare health and public health professionals to contribute to efforts in youth violence prevention in the United States. The core competencies identified by the Academic Centers of Excellence Working Group can support the development of curricula in this area.