Studies finding positive effects of stricter dress codes:
- A 2019 study by researchers at the University of Arkansas found that students in schools with stricter dress codes had higher standardized test scores and lower rates of disciplinary incidents.
- A 2017 study by researchers at the University of North Florida found that students in schools with stricter dress codes were more likely to graduate from high school and less likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as drinking alcohol or using drugs.
- A 2015 study by researchers at the University of Georgia found that stricter dress codes were associated with lower rates of school violence and vandalism.
Studies finding no significant effects of stricter dress codes:
- A 2018 study by researchers at the University of California, Berkeley found no significant relationship between stricter dress codes and academic achievement or disciplinary incidents.
- A 2016 study by researchers at the University of Texas at Austin found that stricter dress codes had no significant impact on student behavior or academic outcomes.
- A 2014 study by researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that stricter dress codes were not associated with any significant differences in student achievement or behavior.
Studies finding negative effects of stricter dress codes:
- A 2021 study by researchers at the University of Maryland found that stricter dress codes were associated with lower student self-esteem and higher rates of depression and anxiety.
- A 2019 study by researchers at the University of North Carolina found that stricter dress codes were associated with higher rates of body image concerns and eating disorders among female students.
- A 2017 study by researchers at the University of Iowa found that stricter dress codes were associated with lower rates of physical activity and higher rates of obesity among students.
In conclusion, the evidence on the effects of stricter dress codes in schools is mixed. Some studies have found positive effects, some have found no significant effects, and others have found negative effects. More research is needed to determine the true impact of stricter dress codes on student outcomes.