Victimization and Health Risk Factors Among Weapon-carrying Youth

OBJECTIVE: To compare health risks of 2 subgroups of weapon carriers: victimized and nonvictimized youth. METHODS: 2003-2007 NYC Youth Risk Behavior Surveys were analyzed using bivariate analyses and multinomial logistic regression. RESULTS: Among NYC teens, 7.5% reported weapon carrying without victimization; 6.9% reported it with victimization. Both subgroups were more likely than non-weapon carriers to binge drink, use marijuana, smoke, fight, and have multiple sex partners; weapon carriers with victimization also experienced persistent sadness and attempted suicide. CONCLUSIONS: Subgroups of weapon carriers have distinct profiles. Optimal response should pair disciplinary action with screening for behavioral and mental health concerns and victimization. Language: en