NCJ Number
186045
Date Published
1999
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This brief examines the impact of exposure to violence and victimization at school on the mental health, academic achievement, and social development of children and youth.
Abstract
Violent behavior exists along a continuum; what is considered violent for a 1st grader may differ from what is considered violent for a 12th grader. Violence includes the chronic harassment or bullying of young people and not just serious assault or homicide. Most school districts report in national surveys that violence at schools has worsened in the past several years and that physical assault is the most frequent form of violence. Bullying is one of the most common forms of victimization at school. Research has linked children's exposure to violence to numerous emotional and behavioral consequences that they often display during the school day and that school personnel can recognize. These consequences include anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress, low self-esteem, self-destructive behaviors, anger, and aggression. Prompt response is essential to helping ensure the proper emotional and behavioral development of children exposed to violence. Appropriate training and education of school personnel regarding risk factors and early warning signs are crucial. Students should be part of these ongoing educational efforts. School safety plans should include several other components as well. The challenge for schools in addressing children's exposure to violence is to screen and intervene appropriately and not to overreact to every sign or event as an omen of imminent violence. 13 references