Managing Aggressive Behaviour in Schools

With time, there have been significant changes in behavior, which have also been experienced in schools, where aggressive behavior has been observed. It is not just one country affected by this issue; even the most developed countries, such as the United States, Canada, and Germany, are on the list. In all these countries, there has been an increase in reports of aggressive behavior among children and secondary school students. Aggressive behaviour in schools not only impacts children’s mental state but also has a detrimental effect on their academic performance, leading to difficulties in social integration. This issue is evident across all age groups, from the aggressive behaviour of 4-year-olds in primary schools to that of older students in secondary schools.

Scope of the Issue

In the United States, there are ongoing national-level discussions about dealing with aggressive behaviour in schools and the promotion of positive education. According to the National Centre for Education Statistics, 20% of students have faced bullying, many of whom are linked to aggressive behaviour. A report indicates that in Canada, one in three students’ experiences bullying and aggressive behaviour. In Germany, this issue is increasingly evident in urban areas, where social organizations are working on prevention efforts through evidence-based practices.

Causes of Aggressive Behaviour in Schools

Aggressive behaviour in schools is often a symptom of deeper issues. In the U.S., Canada, and Germany, the common causes include:

• Bullying: As children go through developmental stages, they may try to exert control over each other or take things from one another, leading to aggressive interactions. This is commonly seen in both primary and secondary schools.
• Family Conditions: Many children are influenced by the habits of their parents, which they replicate at school, contributing to aggressive behaviour.
• Mental Health: Some children display aggression due to depression or other mental health issues, trying to dominate others as a way to find mental peace. Evidence-based practices in managing aggressive behaviour in schools suggest that mental health interventions can be crucial.
• Influence of Social Media: While social media has brought people closer, it has also created distance. Children and adolescents no longer discuss their problems with one another and spend excessive time on social media, which negatively affects their mental state. The perceived impact of anime and other media on school children’s aggressive behaviour is also a growing concern.

Impact on Students of Aggressive Behaviour

Aggressive behaviour in schools can have far-reaching effects, including:

• Decline in Academic Performance: Children become distracted, lose interest in their studies, and their grades begin to drop.
• Emotional Distress: Victims of aggression often suffer from depression and anxiety, finding little comfort in anything they do.
• Social Isolation: Aggressive behaviour leads to students becoming isolated from society, preferring solitude and resisting authority.

If this issue is not addressed in schools, it will not only impact children’s education but also result in a shortage of good citizens in society. Therefore, positive steps must be taken to address aggressive behaviour in schools to ensure a healthy social environment. Risk assessment for aggressive behaviour in schools can help identify potential problems early and provide opportunities for timely intervention.

A Global Perspective on Aggressive Behaviour

While different countries face unique challenges, one common observation is that aggressive behaviour is similar across the board. Therefore, similar measures should be taken for prevention:

• Promoting Mental Health Awareness: Schools should reduce the academic burden and prioritize awareness programs so that children can assess their mental state and recognize any tendencies toward aggressive behaviour. Posters to display in schools can be effective tools in raising awareness and providing visual reminders of positive behaviour.
• Strengthening Anti-Bullying Programs: Programs should be organized to practically demonstrate the harmful effects of aggressive behaviour. Raising awareness about the consequences of aggressive behaviour among secondary school students is particularly important, as they are at a critical stage of social and emotional development. By showing real-life examples and involving students in discussions, schools can foster a deeper understanding of the importance of empathy and kindness.
• Encouraging Positive Behaviour: Positive behaviour should be recognized and rewarded. An incentive scheme should be introduced to reward students who exhibit positive behaviour, encouraging others to follow suit.
• Providing Counselling and Support: Resources should be made available to improve mental health. Schools should offer opportunities to assess students’ mental health and provide timely interventions. Regular mental health assessments can help identify students who may be struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma, which can often manifest as aggression. Further dealing with aggressive behavior in schools through counseling sessions tailored to address the specific needs of aggressive students can lead to better emotional regulation and improved social interactions. Additionally, offering group therapy sessions or peer support groups can provide students with a safe space to express their feelings and learn from others facing similar challenges.

Key Takeaways

No problem can be solved through individual efforts alone. Since aggressive behaviour is a global issue, parents, teachers, and social organizations must work together to address it. The first step should be to provide mental health awareness. Empathy programs should be introduced to highlight how helping others and positive behaviour can have a positive impact on everyone. Aggressive behaviour does not originate from childhood itself; it is often shaped by the environment in which a child is raised. Therefore, special attention should be given to the environment in which a child is growing up. Anything that negatively impacts a child’s mental state and inclines them towards aggression should be kept away.

In dealing with aggressive behaviour at school, the goal should be to cultivate empathy and patience in children so that if they encounter aggressive behaviour, they respond with patience rather than aggression. Educators and parents might also consider providing a speech on the aggressive behaviour of students in school to raise awareness and foster a more positive school environment.