How to Take a Weapons History: Interviewing Children at Risk for Violence at School

Abstract

Violence is prevalent and has been escalating in U.S. schools. One in 10 public schools reported at least one serious violent incident (defined as murder, sexual assault. suicide, physical attack or fight with a weapon, or robbery) during 1996-1997 (U.S. Department of Education, 1998). A nationwide survey reported 15% of students had been in a physical fight. 8% were threatened or injured with a weapon at school during the preceding 12 months, and 4% had missed at least 1 day of school because they felt unsafe at or en route to school during the preceding 30 days; in the same period. 9.8% reported carrying weapons on school property (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1996). There were 11,000 incidents of attacks or fights in which weapons were used during 19961997 (U.S. Department of Education, 1998). Between 1992 and 1994 there were 76 student deaths from violence; most involved firearms and knives and started with interpersonal disputes (Kachur et al., 1996). School-related violence often stems from factors originating outside of school. Youths who are victims of gun-related violence at school often have male family members who routinely carry guns or use or sell drugs (Sheley et al., 1992). Carrying a weapon at school has been associated with alcohol use and being offered. given, or sold illicit drugs (Durant et al., 1997). In rural areas, high school students who carry guns at school may be prone to physical fighting. victimization, entering dangerous situations. and cocaine use (Kingery et al., 1996). Youths often justify carrying weapons because they erroneously believe weapons will prevent fights and make them safer. Of more than 400 adolescents surveyed in Boston, only 55% acknowledged that carrying a gun increases the risk of death or injury (Hausman et aI .• 1994); half agreed that people