WAVE believes that preventing child abuse is the key to reducing violence in society.

Although there are many causes of violence, WAVE has identified child abuse or neglect as a fundamental contributor to antisocial, aggressive or violent behaviour. This is because:

•  Patterns of behaviour are adopted very early on in life. Many children who are abused or neglected learn that the world is cruel place and act accordingly.

•   Antisocial behaviour is difficult to change - once adopted, this character trait is strong and often leads to adult violence.

•  This pattern of violence is then repeated within the family as the antisocial / aggressive adult raises their own child.

WAVE undertakes extensive research to identify and promote effective prevention programmes.

Our strategies involve:

•  Identifying the root causes of child abuse and violence.

•  Finding the most effective methods known to address these root causes.

•  Promoting the adoption of these proven methods.

•  Project Managing the implementation of these methods within local communities.

WAVE's 4 Key Recommendations are:

•  No child should leave school without receiving fundamental training in how to "attune" with babies and to parent in a non-violent manner. An example of this type of programme is provided by Roots of Empathy - www.rootsofempathy.org

•  During a first pregnancy, every mother- and father-to-be should receive supportive coaching on how to "attune" with babies, how to ensure the child's successful emotional development and how to parent in a non-violent manner. An example of this type of support is offered by the programme First Steps in Parenting (details from the programme developer Dr Mel Parr, by e-mailing WAVE at office@wavetrust.org)

•  Babies in "at risk" families should be monitored during the first three years, with their parents receiving regular visits by specially trained Health Visitors who provide practical encouragement and support. An example of what could be provided can be seen via the Nurse Family Partnership - www.nursefamilypartnership.org

•  Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in violent individuals should be recognised, and steps taken to heal it in children and adults entering the legal and prison systems. Extract from the WAVE Report 2005