In addition, certain families at certain times are at greater risk for violence than other families. Sociocultural values relating to violence and sex roles affect vulnerabilities, situational stressors, and coping resources as well as the definition of and perception of the violence itself. There is also a tendency for violence, once it has been used as a way of getting needs met, to exacerbate already existing vulnerabilities and stressors, thus contributing to its maintenance. The capabilities of individuals and families to meet the demands of everyday life and overcome vulnerabilities without resorting to violence or other dysfunctional behavior depend on personal resources, family system resources, and social support. Programs designed to prevent violence in this generation can free the next generation from the vulnerability caused by being socialized into violence. 76 references