Violence by and against youth has increased over the last two decades cutting across racial and socio-economic lines. Assaults are on the increase.
Verbal abuse is more widespread.
A lack of civility in relationships at school is a common complaint of educators across the country. Reports of violence fill the media daily. Most violence has traditionally occurred between people who know each other. Acts of random violence, however, appear to be on the increase. Motivating factors range from arguments that get out of hand to gang-related incidents.