Sociological Framework: violence in schools

The existence of violence in schools

The existence of violence in schools is one of the societal issues that is getting more and more attention but is not being addressed effectively. Children’s growth and development today and in the future are fundamentally based on their education, and schools are intended to be both safe havens and places of learning. However, classrooms are now resembling a combat zone to the point that guns are present. Urban, low-income educational institutions have had a substantial amount of gun violence involving students. In fact, a report by the Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence, (2017), mentions that in the period between August 2016 and March 2017, 558 gun incidences were reported in schools with a significant number involving student perpetrators. The cause for the increasing violence is shown to stem from bullying. As such, the victims of severe harassment tend to wield or use guns and other weapons more frequently than the non-bullied students (Simckes, 2017). If left unchecked, this adverse social issue is likely to escalate to unmanageable levels. Parents, the community, policy-makers, teachers, and counselors have a role to play in student welfare including counseling and limiting access of the minors to firearms.

Response 1

I agree with you on the point that boycotts play the fundamental purpose of highlighting specific wrongdoings or events that adversely affect the individuals protesting. Boycotting the act of taking a knee during the National Anthem sends a strong message which might be interpreted as lack of patriotism. However, recognizing the individuals, their reasons and purpose for the boycott are essential for understanding the plight of the minorities and also look for ways to make things better.

Response 2

Indeed, the rates of suicides have significantly increased, and this is due to a combination of other social issues that you have mentioned including drug abuse, poverty, stress, bullying and other family challenges. At the moment, the primary problem concerning suicide is that there are no sufficient and effective methods put in place to curb the trend. Strategies to stop bullying, the provision of mental health services, a stable economy, and education are equally essential aspects.

References

Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence. (2017). Gun Violence in Schools. Washington, D.C.: Brady Center.

Simckes, M. (2017, January 7). Guns in America: The Worrying Relationship between School-Bullying and Gun Violence. Retrieved on November 5, 2017 from http://www.newsweek.com/bullied-victims-and-gun-violence-american-schools-worrying-relationship-629752