Feeling pressure to dress in the most stylish, fashion-forward clothing can cause both economic and social problems. Many educators think that the pressure to dress a certain way is a distraction from schoolwork. There is a great desire, especially among teen girls, to fit in. Parents may feel pressured to buy clothing for their children. Pro-uniform advocates assert that uniforms reduce this anxiety to conform, allowing students to focus more attention on academics rather than attire.
Educators who have required uniforms report seeing less gang activity, because uniforms eliminate the ability to wear gang colors. Some parents feel safer sending their girls to schools with uniforms.
Another benefit of uniforms is that they help to create a sense of belonging, making school members feel more like a team. At the same time, they make it easier to identify outsiders who don't belong at the school. In addition, uniforms can encourage a sense of school pride.
A study of schools in Ohio from 1994 to 2002 showed that schools with uniform requirements showed improved rates of graduation compared to schools that didn't require uniforms. Teachers at the schools requiring uniforms also reported an increase in attendance and less aggressive behavior among students. The researchers reported that the average graduation rates rose nearly 11 percent at schools that required uniforms, compared to pre-uniform years. At the same time, graduation rates among non-uniform-wearing students dropped 4.6 percent, compared with earlier years.