Random acts of violence are becoming very common in schools and colleges these days. This can have a deep effect on teens. Experience and exposure to such violence can leave a confused, powerless and vulnerable impact on the teens.
Teens that experienced violence on campus had more intense reactions to safety issues. Some teens aren’t vividly aware of what safety measures they should take.
Common violence which regularly happens on campus:
-Bullying is tormenting others through verbal harassment mostly.
-Gambling is one of the most common elements on every campus. Students regularly play poker for money or playing for bets.
-Drugs and alcohol are the most common substances abused by teenagers. Most students have access to drugs.
-Smoking and smokeless tobacco are commonly used by teens.
-Rape and date rape is again a regular violence in the campus.
Various ways for teenagers to handle violence on campus:
- In case you see someone with a weapon or some illegal item, try to walk the other way. Get away from the situation as quickly and quietly possible. Try to inform someone such as campus security, police officer, or teacher. As these persons handle the situation, ask them to keep your name confidential. Let them know what happened in detail. You can also keep a written record about the incident, writing down everything in detail.
- If you see a bully in action, refuse to join in, encourage your bullied friend to talk with a teacher or parents. If you have witnessed bullying, speak for the bullied person or offer support to him or her.
- To avoid rape and date rape, do not go to deserted areas of the campus. Try to tell someone you trust your date’s name, destination and planned time of return.
- On campus you should walk with confidence and stay alert. Your hands should not be overloaded. Get your keys ready, in case you are followed and run to an occupied place.
- Try to develop a sense of power and control over the situation, which will help reduce your anxiety and fear.
- Whatever the case of violence may be, the teens should try to resolve the conflicts peacefully. In case it’s not easy that way, report it to the authorities like the principal, teacher or police.
Teenagers should be responsible for their own actions by keeping the peace and treating others with respect to avoid violence on the campus.
