Violent Behavior

If you are violent or hurt other people, the damage may be permanent, both physically and psychologically. No one deserves to be beaten. In addition, personal violence is against the law and there are severe penalties.

Violence need not be a way of life. You can learn to control yourself.

Family arguments may be too frequent and may get out of hand, leading to physical violence. If this is happening in your home, you may want to talk to someone about your feelings. If you need to get away, leave. Get help and call the police.

For family violence problems, prevention programs, or information about shelters for victims of domestic violence, call:

• Local Police
  • 911 or (605) 347-2573
• Local Sheriff
  • 911 or (605) 347-2681
• Department of Social Services
  • (605) 347-2588
• Crisis Intervention Services
  • (605) 347-0050
  • (800) 755-8432

HOW TO HANDLE AN ANGRY SITUATION
If you are the one who is angry:

• Count to ten.
• Relax and consider why you are angry.
• Look at the other person’s point of view.
• Talk about why you are angry.
• Leave the situation to cool off.
• Ask someone who is not involved for their opinion.

If someone else is angry:

• Talk to them calmly.
• Offer ways to solve the problem
• If you have made someone angry, APOLOGIZE.
• Look for a compromise to the problem.
• If a fight is about to start, LEAVE.
• It takes maturity to talk out problems and courage to walk away from a fight.