NCJ Number
212485
Journal
Journal of School Violence Volume: 4 Issue: 3 Dated: 2005 Pages: 21-35
Date Published
2005
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This study examined Florida elementary students’ perceptions and experiences in reference to school violence and school safety.
Abstract
Recent incidents of school violence have lead to a greater concern and awareness of school safety, both in schools and communities. The long-term detrimental effect of school safety and violence on younger students makes it essential to assess not only their actual experiences but also their perceptions. This study examined the conditions of safety and violence in South Florida elementary schools. The results will make it possible to more clearly develop an understanding of the trends or characteristics unique to school safety in elementary schools. The study consisted of 396 fourth graders from Miami-Dade County. A survey instrument was constructed to gather information about students and their experiences in school so comparisons could be made. The primary analysis was descriptive to examine students’ perceptions of school safety, their encounters with violent situations, and the actions they would take in response to those violent situations. The results provide some context for examining the status of school safety and violence in elementary schools. The study, while limited to South Florida, does support several studies indicating that overall, most elementary students feel safe in their school. Tables and references