Revisiting In Loco Parentis: Student Privacy versus Faculty Protection in the Classroom

• In Event: College-based Violence Prevention: Policies and Programs

Abstract

The tragic campus events within the last decade coupled with the increase of students with reported mental health issues, has confronted college communities with the grave reality that their academic sanctuary may not be as safe as once perceived. A 2006 study found 90% of college counseling center directors report an increase in students having psychological concerns with some of them being so severe that they could not remain enrolled in school. While the relationship between emotional distress and campus crime has been debated, it seems to be a common thread amongst school shooters. While the media often depict extreme examples of campus violence, these incidences draw attention to the unknown threats that might exist on some college campuses. It appears that campus administrators are hesitant to discipline and intervene with or alert faculty about students who are displaying depressive episodes. This paper presents the results of a content analysis on the policies that serve to protect student privacy as well as provide a safe and secure college campus. The study seeks to address deficiencies in campus policies, identify best practices and provide policy guidance for institutions of higher learning regarding the balance between student privacy and faculty protection.

Authors

• Cherie Dawson-Edwards, University of Louisville

• Kristin Swartz, University of Louisville

• Dustin Osborne, University of Louisville

• Isis Walton, Virginia State University