School Violence: A Blueprint for Elementary School Interventions

Longitudinal studies consistently demonstrate the early emergence and stability of aggressive behavior throughout human development. These data imply that violence prevention programs should start at an early age. Typically, however, violence intervention programs focus on adolescent children. This article maintains that the neglect of elementary school populations is related to society's definition of the word “violence” and ignorance about developmental precursors to serious violence in adolescence. Social workers can be at the forefront in disseminating information, collecting data, and organizing developmentally appropriate violence prevention programs for elementary school-age children. Successful European interventions are discussed, and guidelines for future research and elementary school violence programs are put forth.