An Exploratory Study of Violence and Aggression Against Teachers in Middle and High Schools: Prevalence, Predictors, and Negative Consequences. (2nd April 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Moon, Byongook; McCluskey, John
• Is Part Of: Journal of school violence. Volume 19:Number 2(2020)
• Page Start: 122
• Page End: 137
• Publication Date: 2020-04-02
• Subjects: Violence against teachers -- school safety -- violence -- victimization; School violence -- Prevention -- Periodicals; School environment -- Periodicals; 371.78205
• DOI: 10.1080/15388220.2018.1540010
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1538-8220

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Limited empirical findings suggest that teacher victimization at school is highly prevalent, with detrimental negative impacts on victimized teachers. Given the scarce body of literature on teacher victimization, further research is necessary to investigate its extent, predictors, and negative consequences. The present research, using a representative sample of 1, 628 teachers in the southwest region of the United States, indicates a high prevalence of violence and aggression directed against teachers. Also, the research found that teachers' uncertain and helping/friendly behaviors toward students were significantly related to various types of teacher victimization. Experiences involving the five victimization types (theft/property damage, physical assault, verbal abuse, sexual harassment, and noncontact aggression) are correlated with teachers' self-reported job performance, student trust, safety at school, and thoughts about quitting. Directions for future research and policy implications are considered in the context of these findings.