In numerous cases the perpetrator of school violence has often been a victim of some type of abuse, be it physical, emotional or sexual. It becomes a vicious cycle beginning with abuse that is not dealt with, which leads to a build up of anger. When people witness hate they develop a defense mechanism, often anger. Over time, if help is not offered, victims resort to violent tendencies themselves, as a result of lack of guidance in their lives. A risk factor that has also played a role in several school shootings has been bullying.
Bullying can cause the self-esteem level to drop dramatically in many cases.
Along with low self-esteem, anger management once again comes into play. Wagner suggested that a sensitivity training program, similar to the one required for peer educators, could offer coping and communication skills in dealing with problems. Students also need to understand that there are places to go for help. However, students in lower grades are more likely to cite they've been bullied by other students in their school environment. Ms. Ellen King, guidance counselor, sees the break down of family structure and the change in our media and culture as some main factors contributing to violence.