Student violence needs to be controlled at most basic level – the classroom – and it is the teachers who can detect violent behavior among students the earliest. Teacher need to be trained in identifying and tackling bad behavior and acts of violence committed by their students in order to fight school violence effectively. Here are some warning signs that teachers need to keep an eye out for in the classroom:
1. If you notice that a student that has been performing well in his or her studies suddenly stops paying attention or loses interest, then chances are that they are suffering from some form of psychological pressure.
2. Students showing an inclination towards violent and aggressive games generally use such sports to vent out built up frustration. Try to observe if the student likes inflicting pain on others during sports such as rugby or basketball.
3. A child who remains isolated from the rest of the class and seems depressed may be suffering emotionally. Without proper counseling, such students have the potential of becoming serious aggressors.
4. While checking creative essays, notice trends in a child writing. If you notice that a child is regularly writing depressing or negative essays, then he or she may be suffering psychologically and should be observed further.
5. A child who is unable to control his or her anger and frequently has outbursts where they argue and fight with classmates is more likely to commit acts of violence at school so keep an eye out for students with temper control issues.
6. Students who have repeatedly been caught for bringing weapons to school most probably carry them for a reason, be it offense or defense. Try to find out from such students what makes them feel the need to carry weapons.
7. Students who are violent but are afraid of doing anything to classmates often tend to take their frustration out by committing acts of violence against animals.
