Topic: Increasing violence in schools – a matter of concern
Introduction
Schools, considered to be temples of education, where all-round development of children takes place, are nowadays becoming bastions of violence and insecurity. In recent years, incidents of firing and violence in schools have increased steadily. Especially in developed countries, such incidents are coming to the fore, which is a matter of concern not only for the school administration but for the entire society.
The incident of Abundant Life Christian School, which occurred in Madison city of Wisconsin state of America between 5 and 17 December, is a recent example of this, where a 15-year-old girl student perpetrated violence in her school. In this article, we will analyze this incident, discuss its causes, social impact and possible measures for solution.
Factual description of the incident
Place and time:
On the morning of December 5, an unexpected incident occurred at the “Abundant Life Christian School” located in Madison city of Wisconsin. At 9:30 am, when the students were going towards their classes, a 15-year-old girl student suddenly took out a weapon and started firing.
Who was the attacker?
The attacker was identified as Natalie “Samantha” Rupnow. Natalie was a student of the same school and had been suffering from mental stress for several months. During the investigation, the police recovered a diary and manifesto from her room, in which she had mentioned her negative feelings towards the school and society.
Sequence of events:
- Just after the prayer meeting, Natalie reached the main hall of the school.
- She suddenly took out a pistol and fired three rounds.
- Two students and a teacher were injured in the firing.
- The school administration immediately informed the police and the students were evacuated safely.
- Natalie surrendered within 20 minutes.
Condition of the injured:
The injured students and the teacher were immediately taken to the hospital. Their condition is now said to be stable.
Possible causes of school violence
Such incidents in schools are not the result of just one day. There are many deep and serious reasons behind this:
Mental health problems:
- Adolescence is a period when children go through physical, mental and emotional changes. If they do not get proper guidance and support during this time, they can become victims of depression, loneliness and anger.
- In Natalie’s case too, it became clear in the police investigation that she was facing mental stress and depression for some time.
Bullying:
- Often in schools, weak or differently behaved children are targeted by other students. This harassment causes mental trauma, due to which children can take violent steps.
Easy access to weapons:
- In countries like America, access to weapons is easy. Teenagers can also acquire weapons without any major obstacle.
- This incident also points to how a 15-year-old student got a weapon.
Family and social stress:
- Any kind of disturbance in the family, quarrel between parents, or social isolation can also make children violent.
Effect of social media and internet:
- Violence-related content and games on the internet have a negative impact on the minds of teenagers.
Effect on society
1. Mental impact on students:
Such incidents have the most profound effect on children. They become frightened and a feeling of insecurity towards school takes root in their minds.
2. Concern of parents:
Parents are worried about the safety of their children. School, which was once considered the safest place, has now become a cause of concern for them.
3. Disruption in education:
Schools are often closed after firing, which affects the studies of students.
4. Fear and insecurity in society:
Such incidents create an atmosphere of fear and insecurity in the entire society. People start fearing to send their children to school.
5. Effect on teachers:
Teachers also feel uncomfortable working in such an environment and their efficiency is affected.
Solution to this problem
Several concrete steps can be taken to prevent violence in schools:
1. Emphasis on mental health:
Counselling services should be made compulsory in schools.
Students should be encouraged to share their emotional and mental problems.
2. Strict security system:
Security checks should be arranged for entry into schools.
Metal detectors and CCTV cameras should be used.
3. Arms control:
The government should take strict measures to prevent teenagers from having access to weapons.
4. Strict measures against bullying:
A “zero tolerance policy” should be implemented against bullying in schools.
5. Awareness of parents and teachers:
Parents and teachers should keep an eye on changes in children’s behavior.
6. Spread of positive education:
Students should be taught moral education and lessons on tolerance so that they can become emotionally strong.
Conclusion
This incident of Abundant Life Christian School is not just a problem of a school, but it is a warning for the whole society. The solution to school violence is not only the responsibility of the administration or the government. For this, the whole society will have to work together.
Teachers, parents and administration have to pay attention to the mental health of children and give them proper guidance. We have to make our children believe that violence is not the solution to any problem.
School is the temple of education, and it is the responsibility of all of us to keep it free from violence.