218647 School-based disrespect among middle and high school youth

Wednesday, November 10, 2010 : 10:30 AM - 10:45 AM

Keith A. King, PhD, CHES , Department of Health Promotion & Education, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH
Rebecca A. Vidourek, PhD, CHES , Health Promotion & Education Program, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH
Background: Factors such as school climate and school connectedness have been shown to protect youth from involvement in violence and bullying. However, a paucity of studies has examined students' perceptions regarding school-based disrespect. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine students' definitions of respect and disrespect, perceived problems stemming from disrespect in the school, factors contributing to school-based disrespect, and potential interventions to increase school-based respect. Methods: A total of 9 focus groups were conducted with middle and high school students (N = 78) in nine urban, suburban and rural schools to examine students' perceptions regarding school-based disrespect. Dual issues of topics were explored and a grounded theoretical approach was used to examine youth perceptions and to ensure that all follow-up questions were formulated based strictly on participants' responses and not on any preconceived notions. Results: Teasing and making fun of others were the most common definitions of disrespect. Students felt disrespect was caused by trying to fit into a group; feeling jealous/insecure; wanting revenge; and racial/ethnic differences. Students cited violence, bullying, alcohol/drug use, and depression as problems occurring from disrespect. Suggested strategies to increase respect included student activities, mentoring programs, promotion of violence-free schools, assemblies, and requirement of school uniforms. Conclusions: Findings from this study should be shared with school health educators, parents and individuals interested in decreasing school-related bullying and violence. Specific strategies to decrease school-based disrespect are needed. Teachers and parents should work cooperatively to address this issue.

Learning Areas:
Planning of health education strategies, interventions, and programs
Program planning
Public health or related education
Social and behavioral sciences

Learning Objectives:
1) Identify factors associated with school-based disrespect among youth. 2) Discuss strategies to decrease school-based disrespect and increase school-based respect.

Keywords: Violence Prevention, School Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I am a Professor of Health Promotion and Education and conduct research on school health issues
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.