SCHOOL VIOLENCE

School Violence



School Violence

Introduction

School Violence has become a matter of serious concern today in many countries of the world. It is common in those parts of the world where use of weapons such as guns or knives are very common. School violence includes hostile behavior among students that could result in the physical attacks on other members of the school. Society in general is also victim of such violence prevailing in the school vicinity. It does not only influence the learning environment but, there are long range profound impacts which affect us all. Researchers have statistically evidences which prove that children involved in bullying behaviors are more likely to become criminals in future. Children who display violent behavior inside the school premises are exposed to violent or abuse outside the school in the real world. Therefore, such children are entitled to get serious attention from adults (Corso & et al, 2007).

School violence gathered a lot of attention currently because of the tragic incidents, such as school shooting. These incidents are growing rapidly and therefore, are a matter of concern to the school management and other related associates. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (Juvenile offenders and victims: 1999 National report, 1999), the reported death rate is much lower than the actual occurrence of death caused by the school violence. Incidents of suicide and accidents among school age victims are recorded on a much higher scale in 2001. Also the ratio of students involved in bullying has shown a significant increase from in the recent past. Therefore, it is important to keep in mind that school violence can include emotional and physical ridicule or bullying, assaults, threats, sexual offenses, as well as the less apparent but equally important components of graffiti and vandalism, trespassing and gangs (Tietjen, 1999).

School Violence and Its Adverse Effects

Prime victims from such violence are students and children studying in the school. Deaths associated by violence in school are only one part of this major issue. Non- fatal injuries are also very common in school. Such injuries include minor cuts, broken bones or bruises. Other then these non-fatal injuries, students may perform actions that could result in serious injuries and permeate disabilities. Such activates involve wounds of gun shoot and head traumas. Adverse effects of violence could also lead to the negative health outcome in a number of cases. Many other psychological problems can arise from school violence such as depression, anxiety and fear. Such problems are not visible but have adverse impacts on growing child. According to a survey conducted among high school children, it was concluded that the children do not attend school at least once a month. Apart for sickness, major reasons for not going to school include the safety issues among children. There is a significant increase in this practice from 1993 to 2005. This study also analyzed that 70% of surveyed students go home early because they are afraid of being bullied by other students (Klicka, ...