Fear and Loathing in the Classroom

Abstract

School violence represents a real threat to the safety of students and staff; however, the belief that it is proliferating—as well as the aggressive, prescriptive response on the part of many administrators to this perception—may be ill advised. This article provides the reader with a balanced perspective as well as a synthesis of best-evidence research describing effective interventions that help prevent school violence. Ultimately, the most successful approaches must involve the “problem” student in the solution by valuing his or her membership in the school community and fostering meaningful relationships with peers and staff.