Risk Factors and Consequences of Weapon-Related Violence in Schools

• In Event: Rethinking Violence, Crime, and Schools

Abstract

This study uses meta-analytic methods to address several unresolved questions in the school violence literature. For example, much prior research relies on a broad definition of violence, often not differentiating between non-physical forms of bullying and very serious acts (e.g., assault and homicide). As a result, the risk factors for violence involving weapons are inconclusive. We use a three-level hierarchical design to group risk factors into micro (the individual), meso (peer and family), and macro-level (school and community) domains. We will identify the strongest micro, meso, and macro-level predictors of weapon-related violence in schools as well as examine the consequences for individuals who have been the victim of or attended a school where weapon-related violence has taken place. Implications of the results for schools, law enforcement organizations, and other groups working to prevent school violence will be discussed.

Authors

• Natasha Pusch, Texas Tech University

• Kristy Holtfreter, Arizona State University

• Michael D. Reisig, Arizona State University