As per a new study, weapon-related violence for children whether as a victim or witness can increase the risk of mental health problems for them.

One in 33 children has gone through circumstances in which lethal weapons have been used. Study researchers said that the exposure increases the chance that children will arm themselves or mingle with people who carry weapons.

The study authors said that they are also more likely to suffer from long-term psychiatric consequences. Study's co-author Kimberly Mitchell at the University of New Hampshire's Crimes Against Children Research Center, was of the view, "Exposure to violence involving highly lethal weapons is associated with higher trauma symptoms, over and above exposure to all other types of violence, making it a strong contributor to adolescent depression, anxiety and aggression".

The journal Pediatrics-published research has focused on more than 4,100 children aged two to 17 years old and participated in a telephone survey. On the basis of the answers, the researchers came to know that more than 17.5 million children in America have gone through violence involving weapons like guns, knives, rocks and sticks.

Out of all, exposure to lethal weapons had the strongest consequences. Study's co-author Sherry Hamby said that witnessing violence has traumatic psychological consequences for children.

One injury expert said that the study findings should encourage authorities concerned to protect children from the negative impacts of violence. It is suggested that screening for weapon exposure should be a practice for children receiving services for victimization.