When most people think of school violence, they think of school shootings; however, school violence also encompasses emotional and physical abuse, bullying, physical assaults, threats, sexual offenses and online bullying.
By the time kids leave high school they will have witnessed a staggering number of murders and violent acts on television. For instance, the AAP estimates that by age 18, the average young person will have viewed 200,000 acts of violence on television alone.
Nearly 3,500 studies have demonstrated that viewing media violence is a risk factor for aggressive behavior, according to the AAP.
According to the Center on Media and Child Health (CMCH), media violence affects students in several ways. First, children and teens become desensitized. They believe violence is normal and lose the ability to feel compassion. For example, they may not stick up for someone who is being bullied. Students also may use violence to solve problems and resolve conflicts at school.
Finally, media violence can lead to aggressive thoughts and behaviors, which later might be acted upon while in school.
Media violence increases feelings of fear and anxiety and leads to anti-social behavior, according to the CMCH. Meanwhile, students victimized by violence at school can suffer from depression, low self-esteem, truancy and even post-traumatic stress disorder, according to the National Center for Children Exposed to Violence. In severe cases, this can lead lead to suicide or violent retaliation.
Censoring all programs containing violence may not be the best, according to the CMCH. Instead, the CMCH suggests limiting the time kids spend watching television. The more time kids spend immersed in violent programming, the greater its impact and influence, according to Common Sense Media.
Another option is to accept media for what it is, says the CMCH, and focus on teaching children and teens to be critical consumers. Begin by modeling critical viewing. Think out loud as you make decisions about what to watch. Another option is to watch television programs with kids. Talk about any acts of violence or aggression in the programs and point out what is acceptable. Note when things are unrealistic.