Children from all walks of life converge in America's schools on a daily basis with the expectation that their differences will be respected, and that school will provide an environment that nurtures diversity and protects against bias, prejudice, harassment, threats and acts of violence.
Yet, according to the National Education Association, "Bullying and violence causes 160,000 fearful children to miss one or more school days each month" Bias-motivated bullying-including malicious teasing, threats, physical abuse, obscene gesturing and name-calling-can have far reaching effects on the victims of these acts. Children who are victims of violence of any kind are more likely to experience mental health concerns, which can lead to both physical issues and/or negative social behavior(s), such as headaches, stomachaches, difficulty concentrating, decline in school performance, irritability, depression, isolation, withdrawal and in some cases, thoughts of suicide.
Recognizing the critical need to address bias and hate violence in schools, many school districts have implemented programs and provide courses of instruction to educate youth about diversity, cultural identity, and promote healthy attitudes towards others. They have also begun to implement zero-tolerance policies to deal with children who violate school safety rules and regulations. These strategies represent important first steps toward breaking the cycle of school violence and creating a safe school environment.
The National Mental Health Association offers the following suggestions to guide your discussions with children about school violence:
- Encourage children to talk about their concerns and to express their feelings.
- Talk honestly about your own feelings regarding school violence.
- Validate the child's feelings.
- Empower children to take action regarding school safety.
- Discuss the safety procedures that are in place at your child's school.
- Create safety plans with your child.
- Recognize behavior that may indicate your child is concerned about returning to school.
- Keep the dialogue going.
- Seek help when necessary.
For more information about helping children to cope with fear and violence and about school-based mental health, please contact the National Mental Health Association (NMHA) at 800-969-NMHA or visit the website at www.mnha.org.
Karen B. Francis, MA is the Executive Director of the Safe Schools/Healthy Students Action Center, National Mental Health Association and a Member of the Partners Against Hate Advisory Board.
