What’s causing an uptick in violence in schools? Here’s what parents should look out for

ORLANDO, Fla. — It has become all too common in our schools: fights, bomb threats and guns on campus.

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According to a recent Education Weekly survey, nearly half of school leaders who participated said they are seeing more violence in the classroom.

Channel 9 anchor Christian Bruey talked to Dr. Joanne Frederick, who has been in the field of counseling for 25 years, to find out what is leading to the increase.

“They’re dealing with the pandemic. They’re dealing with war. They are dealing with separation, loss, changes, bullying, cyberbullying,” she said.

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The pandemic has forced kids to be on their devices more, which in turn, led to more cyberbullying.

According to Security.org, 21% of children have been bullied on social media. Frederick said that often leads to kids suffering in silence.

“They may also retaliate and say things or talk about that person to someone else. And then it just snowballs into a big issue,” Frederick said.

To avoid those big issues, Frederick said there are some signs for parents to look out for.

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“Some of the signs are they’re withdrawing. They may come home and go straight in a room and close the door. They’re not communicating,” Frederick said. “I think it’s very important to observe versus constantly talking and telling kids what to do and what not to do and how they should do something.”

Despite the growing concerns, Frederick offered some optimism.

“Children are resilient. So yes, they’re going through a lot. And yes, we have to help support them, but they do bounce back,” Frederick said.

On Friday, Channel 9 will talk with Frederick again about some tips for parents on how to deal with children who may be experiencing anxiety or depression.

READ: 7 students charged, 1 seriously injured after fight at DeLand High

You can watch it on Eyewitness News This Morning, starting at 4:30 a.m.

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