NCJ Number
110950
Journal
Western European Education Volume: 18 Issue: 3 Dated: (Fall 1987) Pages: 63-73
Date Published
1986
Length
11 pages
Annotation
In this article, the author discusses, from a European perspective, the causes of violence in schools and some positive approaches to prevention.
Abstract
Normal childhood aggression is increasingly turning into criminal activities, such as vandalism and theft. The author notes that absenteeism is on the rise, verbal clashes are frequent, and assaults against teachers have begun to occur in several countries. General causes of violence in and around schools include misguided town planning (small housing units, few playgrounds and recreational facilities); lack of sleep and rest; the fast pace of life and a lack of parental receptivity; and extra handicaps due to cultural differences (language, customs). Among the causes of violence specific to school are inadequate school facilities, educational aims which are contradictory or out of touch with the real world, useless curricula, an excessive number of pupils, and inadequate teacher training. To alleviate this situation, the author suggests several positive approaches, such as starting or resuming a dialog with students at all levels, increasing and diversifying out-of-school activities, and training courses for employment. Tasks for the educational system are opening up schools to life, reducing the number of pupils per class, and more effective teacher training.