ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the patchwork of evidence that links violence and the material world at the different scales of home, neighbourhood and beyond, some background may be useful on certain themes and connections. It considers the connections between violence and the deprivations associated with poverty and inequality. The concept of stress is basic here, since it mediates the links in so many situations. The chapter then reviews very briefly about the impact of violence for children's well-being and development, and how both stress and the concept of resilience come into play here. It provides some introduction to the contribution of the physical environment to young children's development, especially as it pertains to violence. The chapter considers briefly how the material environment actually affects children's development, and how in a theoretical sense it might combine with exposure to harsh treatment and to neglect to penalize children.
