The Facts About Fighting In Schools

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) defines school violence as youth violence that occurs on school property, on the way to or from school or school-sponsored events, or during a school sponsored event.

Some assume that if you teach children how to fight, they will fight in school. However, we find that our kids practice situational awareness, are more skilled at de-escalating conflicts, and are able to defend themselves when absolutely necessary. With the many kids and teens in mind that go through our T.A.G. programs – here are the real facts about fighting in schools.

Fighting In Schools

• 1 in 5 teenagers reported being bullied at school
• 11% of students report have been in a physical fight
• 749,200 nonfatal violent victimizations at school among students 12 to 18 years of age in 2012

“Of students who reported criminal victimization at school, 62% were targets of traditional bullying and 12% were targets of online bullying.” (youth.gov, 2012)

Feeling Unsafe At School

• 7% of students skipped school on 1+ days within the past 30-days because they felt unsafe at school or on their way to or from school
• 8% of students are threatened with weapons at school
• 5% of students reported carrying a weapon on school property 1+ days within the past 30-days

“50% of children who have been bullied online do not report the behavior to their parents, leaving their parents with no idea regarding this behavior.” (cdc.gov, 2011)

Youth Homicides

• Less than 1% of youth homicides occur at school
• Homicide is the 2nd most reported cause of death for youth, after accidents & followed by suicide
• 50% of youth homicide perpetrators gave some type of warning signal prior to the homicide
• Violent deaths among adolescents are more likely to occur at the beginning of the semester

“Emotional self-awareness and control, positive social skills, problem-solving, conflict resolution, and teamwork skills.. can help prevent school violence.” (cdc.gov, 2015)

These statistics show that bullying and harassment can lead students to stop attending school, cause themselves self-harm, and feel the need to carry weapons. Bullying, harassment, and fights that come to head at school are often rooted in problems at home. Parent-child engagement, the presence of positive mentors, outreach programs, and activities like team sports and/or martial arts can help to curb school violence.

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T.A.G. Muay Thai offers self-defense workshops for elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools. Our programs are designed to leave students with a sense of confidence, respect and basic self-protection knowledge. If you live in Northern Virginia or Washington, D.C., call (703) 489-7807 or send us an email at info@tagmuaythai.com to schedule a Self Defense Workshop for your youth or teen group.

Sources:

1. http://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/youthviolence/schoolviolence/
2. http://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/youthviolence/schoolviolence/savd.html
3. http://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/youthviolence/schoolviolence/
4. http://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/pdf/school_violence_fact_sheet-a.pdf
5. http://youth.gov/feature-article/safe-youth-safe-schools