Understanding Violence in High Schools

School violence occurs across the country in schools in every state. The types of violence that students commit on school property include fighting, bullying, sexual assault, and gang violence. A report from the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) found that more than 30% of children worldwide are victims of school violence. 

However, not all students are affected in the same ways by high school violence. Gender non-conforming students and girls are disproportionately victimized. Understanding high school violence includes understanding the immediate and long-term impact on students and the school system as a whole. 

No student should be exposed to violence in school. All age groups can be negatively impacted. Even witnessing violence can affect a student’s self-confidence and interest in learning. However, younger students generally experience different types of bullying than high schoolers and with different consequences. 

How High School Violence Is Different

Due to their more complex social dynamic, high school students experience violence differently from younger students. They face more difficulty when navigating complex peer relationships. Teens are more active on social media than other age groups, where cyberbullying and online conflicts can lead to real-world violence. Also, high school students are more likely to encounter drugs, alcohol, and gang involvement, which can contribute to violent behavior. 

The more advanced physical maturity of high schoolers and their greater autonomy are also points for consideration. Older students have more physical strength and emotional intensity, which can make confrontations more severe. While bullying is unacceptable behavior for any age group, bullying in high school may escalate into physical violence. 

High school students may face more complex family issues, such as divorce or a family member’s death. Neighborhood violence, food insecurity, homelessness, and other economic pressures can also contribute to violent actions. Mental health considerations might also contribute to school violence. Almost 40% of adolescents report experiencing persistent feelings of hopelessness and sadness, and around 28% are coping with poor mental health. 

Consequences of High School Violence

Violence of all kinds impacts the victims, the witnesses, those who commit violent acts, and the community as a whole. Victims may have physical injuries as a result of fighting or weapon use. In some cases, severe injuries are life-changing or even fatal. Physical violence isn’t the only type of high school violence that is dangerous. Victims of emotional and verbal violence may develop mental health disorders, such as depression.

High school violence can also impact a student’s education. Victims may become truant and drop out of school because they feel unsafe and unsupported. Even those who attend school may withdraw and become too distracted to learn efficiently. The self-esteem and confidence issues caused by violence can lead to lifelong problems.

Students don’t have to be direct victims of violence to be affected. Those who witness violence in high school may also feel threatened. They may feel unsafe not only in their school, but on their way to and from school, and in their community. A school environment where students feel afraid is not conducive to learning. 

Preventing High School Violence

Preventing high school violence begins with recognizing all forms of violence. School-wide discussions about violence before and after incidents happen let students know the school takes their safety seriously. 

Ignoring the warning signs only makes the problem worse. Educators should address any incidents of bullying, fighting, sexual assault, and weapons on campus immediately. 

Create a Safe and Supportive School Environment

Doing everything possible to create a safe and supportive school environment may help prevent school violence. Students who feel welcome and supported are less likely to commit violence or let it go unreported. 

Implementing anti-bullying programs is an integral part of improving school culture. Anti-bullying programs help to establish clear rules and consequences around this type of violence. Potentially violent students may recognize that violence won’t be tolerated and feel less inclined to perpetrate bullying or other forms of violence. 

Provide Mental Health and Counseling Support

Students who are struggling with mental health concerns may not receive all the support they need at home. Schools can help students and reduce incidences of violence by providing mental health and counseling assistance on campus. If that’s not possible, providing resources for free and low-cost mental health support is also helpful. 

Offering support to students who perpetrate violence is also vital. Some high schoolers may turn to violent acts because they feel frustrated with a lack of care for their mental wellness.

Engage Parents, Staff, and the Community

A school system is more than just the students, teachers, and support staff inside a building. It includes the entire community that the school serves. Provide diverse opportunities for parents to get involved. More and better communication between teachers and parents improves cooperation. 

Promoting Kindness

How does your high school promote kindness? Peer mentoring programs, awards for positive actions, and recognizing students who are active in campus anti-bullying campaigns are great places to start. 

How Rachel’s Challenge Helps

The mission of Rachel’s Challenge is to address the root causes of school violence through programs that foster positive connections and instill hope in students, teachers, and parents. The Rachel’s Challenge High School Program is designed to improve school safety and create a school culture where kindness and compassion prevail. 

Promoting empathy and kindness has been shown to reduce high school violence and decrease the risk of student suicide or self-harm. 

Taking Action to Prevent Violence and Promote Kindness

Violence in high schools is a serious concern that can have lasting effects on students, staff, and the entire school community. While the causes and consequences of high school violence are more complex than in elementary or middle schools, the good news is that there are ways to prevent it. By focusing on fostering kindness, empathy, and emotional intelligence, schools can create a safer and more supportive environment for all students.

Our program empowers students to build a culture of kindness and respect, reducing violence and fostering stronger, healthier relationships. Contact us today to learn how you can get started!