Bombs and Bookbags

How Teens are Responding to School Violence

By Carma Haley

About two years ago, one of the most horrific incidences involving teen violence occurred at a Colorado high school. It brought to the nation's attention the impact of teenage violence. Various high school students lost their lives that day and millions of teens began thinking: "What if this happened at my school?"

"It can get scary at times," says Kym, a 16-year-old high school sophomore from Columbus, Ohio. "Even though I didn't know any of the kids who died, it's scary to think that the only reason they died is because they went to school that day."

As a result of violent acts by students at their local high schools, school officials have begun to tighten up on security issues and have increased penalties when rules and regulations are broken. Metal detectors, security personnel, regular book bag and locker checks, as well as increased communication with parents are all measures schools have taken to protect staff and students.

But do the additional security measures make students feel safe?

"At first, I was mad about having my book bag and lockers checked," says Brian, a 17-year-old from Colonial Heights, Va. "When I watched one of the security guards take three knives -- one of which looked like a big hunting knife -- out of someone's locker, I realized it's really necessary. I mean, the kid who brought those knives could have hurt someone -- maybe me."

Children who act out in a violent manner do not necessarily do so with the intention of causing harm. Violent children may act out as a plea for help or attention or because they feel they have no other alternative, says Gary Chapman, author of "The Five Love Languages of Teenagers."

"Children who feel they don't belong -- whether at school or at home -- will internalize a variety of emotions," Chapman says. "These children may then experience a flood of emotions, which may result in inappropriate or violent behavior. At times, as it may be too much for them to handle, the behaviors may get out of control or go to extremes. They want attention. They need attention. And to them, negative attention is better then none."

Unfortunately, teens often believe they are invincible and that acts of violence do not and will not affect them, their family or their friends. Most teens don't take violent situations such as a "bomb scare" seriously.

Want to see more?

• Carma's Son Deals with Aggressive Kids
• Talking With Kids About Violence
• FBI Reports on "School Shooter: A Threat Assessment Perspective"
• Teenagers Today MomsTalk