NCJ Number
197667
Date Published
2002
Length
11 pages
Annotation
After providing an overview of shootings and fatalities at schools, this chapter considers the extent and dynamics of school crime.
Abstract
According to government data, 60 school-related violent deaths occurred in the United States between July 1, 1997, and June 30, 1998. Forty-seven of the deaths were classified as homicides, 12 as suicides, and 1 as the result of a police shooting in the line of duty. Still, relatively few violent deaths of children occur at school or in association with school. Youth gangs are often associated with youth violence, weapons possession, and drug dealing on school property. Bullying by and against youths has also been shown to be an at-risk factor of juvenile violence and other antisocial behavior in schools. Further, the relationship between students, weapons, and school violence has been strongly supported in the research. Additionally, approximately 33 percent of 9th-12th-grade students reported having property stolen or damaged in 1997, according to the "Indicators" study. A high rate of alcohol and drug use can also be found at schools. The availability of drugs, including alcohol, on school property contributes to students' substance abuse, youth drug dealing, and other criminal activity. In 1997, almost 33 percent of 9th-12th-grade students reported being offered, given, or sold an illegal drug at school. 2 tables