South Bend Tribune Court and Public Safety writer Lincoln Wright interviewed law officials, me, and another psychologist about the recent uptick in threats of gun violence in high schools. See the link to the article below. I appreciate him considering the psychological factors of social belonging and personal agency in the school community as protective factors.
What is the opposite of the destructive power of gun violence in schools? In my opinion, it is not doubled down security as one expert suggests in the article, although security measures are important to limiting harm. The direct opposite of destructive power of gun violence is constructive, caring relationship. How do these already appear in schools and how can they be cultivated? These are questions I’d like asked of mental health and educational professionals when students turn on their own school or alma mater with threats.
Violent threats at South Bend area schools surge after Florida shooting
The message "Friday, 2/23 all souls will be cleansed," was written on a bathroom stall at South Bend's John Adams High School Tuesday.