Final answer:
Social disorganization theory explains that the roots of youth violence are influenced by the social environment, and early experiences of abuse and neglect. This theory, originating from research at the University of Chicago, suggests that social ties and control play a key role across different communities.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to social disorganization theory, lessons learned from the study of inner-city youth violence can be applied to suburban and rural school shootings, focusing on how the roots of youth violence begins at an early age with rejection, neglect, and other forms of abuse. This theory was developed in the 1920s and 1930s by researchers at the University of Chicago. It posits that crime and violence are more likely in communities with weak social ties and an absence of social control. Factors like economic hardship, community disinvestment, and parental neglect can contribute to a higher likelihood of a youth engaging in violent behavior.
Researchers such as Shaw and McKay have emphasized the impact of geography and social environment over ethnicity in predicting delinquency rates among youths. They observed that immigrant groups often exhibited higher rates of juvenile delinquency within certain disadvantaged neighborhoods, but these rates dropped when families moved to more stable areas. This underscores the influence of the neighborhood's socio-economic conditions on the development of youth behavior rather than ethnic background alone.
In addition, studies have shown that early experiences of abuse and neglect can significantly increase the chances of children partaking in violent acts as they grow. The lack of adequate support systems and positive family involvement can also contribute to the escalation of youth violence in both urban and non-urban settings.