Violent Behavior in Teenagers and at Schools

Barely a day goes by without a story in the media telling us about another incident of teenage violence and school violence, in particular. Despite these reports, the chance a teenager will actually be killed in school is less that one in a million.

Although serious crimes of violence appear to be relatively infrequent, don't assume that schools are violence free — they are not.

Violent behavior covers a wide range of activities:

• bullying, either verbally or physically
• extreme temper tantrums
• playground fights
• cruelty to animals
• vandalism
• starting fires
• verbal abuse
• self-mutilation.

Reasons for Teenage Violence

Teenagers are violent for different reasons. Many teenagers turn to violence as a way of manipulating their environment, particularly at school. Peer pressure can cause an otherwise calm teenager to become the aggressor in a violent situation.

Violence can also be the result of extreme frustration; teenagers are often unable to express themselves in a calm manner. Unfortunately, violence may be used as a channel for their anger.

Retaliation may cause the recipient of an act of violence to strike back against the original aggressor. Feelings of hurt and anger, when linked with the desire to get even, can have potentially devastating consequences for all involved.

Teenage violence often occurs as a result of learned behavior. Many of those who commit acts of school violence have witnessed adults behaving in a similar way, or have been the victims of abuse.

Other factors include:

• experiences that result in feelings of humiliation and loss
• availability of weapons in the home
• being involved in a cult or gang
• using alcohol or drugs
• suffering from psychological illnesses such as depression or psychosis
• a predisposition towards suicidal behavior.

Warning Signs of Potential Teenage Violence

• regular loss of temper
• carrying a weapon
• being irritable over seemingly minor issues
• using threats of violence
• cruelty to animals
• increased risk taking behavior.

Ideas for Tackling Teenage and School Violence

• Find out what policies exist to tackle violence at your child's school. Knowing the procedures will help you advise a child who feels threatened or bullied.
• Talk to your children. By understanding their normal patterns of behavior you'll be able to react quicker to any unexplained changes.
• Always set a good example; never use or allow violence within the home, including fighting among siblings.
• Encourage your children to learn how to express themselves, without resorting to violence.
• Explain that schools are generally safe places. In particular, reinforce the idea that everyone is responsible for reporting any violence they witness.
• Tell your children what to do if they witness an act of school violence.
• Show your children love and respect at all times. If you find yourself in conflict with your child, seek professional assistance.
• Set behavioral boundaries for your children and stick to your rules.
• Be on the lookout for warning signs and act quickly if you suspect your teenager of being involved in violent behavior.
• Don't be afraid to contact your child's school if you're worried about school violence.

School Violence and the Media