The National School Safety Center (NSSC) in the U.S. developed the Checklist for Violent Youth after studying common characteristics of youngsters associated with school-related deaths.
While there is no foolproof system for identifying potentially dangerous students, the NSSC offers the following warning signals that could indicate a youth’s potential for harming him/herself or others.
1._______ Has a history of tantrums and uncontrollable angry outbursts.
2._______ Characteristically resorts to name calling, cursing or abusive language.
3._______ Habitually makes violent threats when angry.
4._______ Has previously brought a weapon to school.
5._______ Has a background of serious disciplinary problems at school and in the
community.
6._______ Has a background of drug, alcohol or other substance abuse or dependency.
7._______ Is on the fringe of his/her peer group with few or no close friends.
8._______ Is preoccupied with weapons, explosives or other incendiary devices.
9._______ Has previously been truant, suspended or expelled from school.
10._______Displays cruelty to animals.
11._______Has little or no supervision and support from parents or a caring adult.
12._______Has witnessed or been a victim of abuse or neglect in the home.
13._______Has been bullied and/or bullies or intimidates peers or younger children.
14._______Tends to blame others for difficulties and problems s/he causes her/himself.
15._______Consistently prefers TV shows, movies or music expressing violent themes
and acts.
16._______Prefers reading materials dealing with violent themes, rituals and abuse.
17._______ Reflects anger, frustration and the dark side of life in school essays or
writing projects.
18._______Is involved with a gang or an antisocial group on the fringe of peer
acceptance.
19._______Is often depressed and/or has significant mood swings.
20._______Has threatened or attempted suicide.
Source: Reprinted with permission from the National School Safety Center Web site
http://www.schoolsafety.us/
