U.S. vs. College Crime Rates, 2000

FBI yearly publication,

Crime in the United States.

These statistics do not relieve us of the responsibility to keep our kids even more safe.  Even one crime is too many.  Each statistic represents a person, a student.  It is mandatory that the problem of crime on campus is recognized to ensure that resources and man power are allocated appropriately.

As a parent, the more you know about the security of the campus, the easier it is to relax and enjoy this college experience along with your student.  When you are choosing a college, research the crime statistic on the campus of the schools your child is interested in attending.  I include these web sites with the free download of violent behavior warning signs

We want the college campus to be safe for everyone.  We want both the staff and the students, safe.

So, what can we do?

Discussions should begin in high school encouraging responsible caution.  It is important to know warning signs when observing the behavior of those around us.  If there is a concern, students need to know what they do.  Discuss their options. Discuss what they should do when they observe erratic behavior in another student or anyone they are exposed to on campus?

Students talk among themselves. Often students talk about a particular situation or person, but they do not take it further.  If this had been discussed when there was no problem, then they would know what to do and they would do it and go about their life. 

So, help them brain storm their options. If they know what to do with the information, they are more apt to report.  Every one has the responsibility to report any suspicious behavior.

As a parent, you are usually not physically available, so this is something your student needs to discuss with a responsible adult.  This can be a professor, an adviser, a dorm supervisor, RA (Resident Advisor) or a professional in their Fraternity or Sorority organization.

Also, there is the campus police and if you do not get any support from them, there is the local police.  The bottom line is the student needs to be encouraged to tell someone.  It will relieve them of the worry and the responsibility.

Kids feel like they are “ratting’ on someone when actually, they may be helping the person get the help they need.  Remind them, it takes a village. If they need to, your student can have a friend with them when they make the report to the adult.  Once they have given this over to the adults in charge, then your student is free to go back to their primary job which is being a student. 

Download the warning signs of potential violence by entering your name and email address.  I have also included some great web sites that you need for reference.    

www.securityoncampus.org  

www.securityoncampus.org

Warning Signs of Violent Behavior
 

1.      A history of violence and/or being victimized

2.      Threats of violence

3.      An obsessive interest in weapons

4.      A tendency to be isolated

5.      The inability to get along with others

6.      Excessive anger

7.      Job loss

8.      Breakup of a relationship

9.      Alcohol and drug usage

10.  Intolerance of differences

11.  Gang affiliation

12.  Poor attachment to school

13.  Exhibiting impulsive behavior

14. Making violent drawings or writings

Flannery, D. J., Quinn-Leering, K. (2000). Violence on college campuses:

Understanding its impact on student well being. Community College Journal of Research and Practice. 24, 839-855.

About the Author:

Parents from around the world have sought College Parenting Expert Dr. Yohn’s advice on successfully getting college students through college with an emphasis on graduation and rewarding employment. Now for the first time, she reveals 27 Winning Strategies for Success – a guidebook geared to parents of new college students. Get her FREE e-Book now at: http://www.collegeworks101.com  & improve your child’s chances of a successful college experience