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Perceiving classroom aggression: the influence of setting, intervention style and group perceptions
1School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, UK. cl@psychology.nottingham.ac.uk
The British Journal of Educational Psychology
|December 2, 2005
Summary
Classroom environment and teacher intervention strategies significantly impact how both practicing and training teachers perceive classroom violence. These factors influence evaluations of the teacher and school, but not the assailant.
Area of Science:
- Educational Psychology
- Classroom Management
- Teacher Training
Background:
- Classroom violence and aggression are significant concerns for educators.
- Limited research exists on teachers' perceptions of intervention appropriateness during aggressive incidents.
- Comparisons between practicing and training teachers' perceptions are under-examined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine differences in perceptions between practicing and training teachers regarding classroom violence.
- To investigate the influence of classroom conditions and teacher interventions on these perceptions.
- To analyze the impact of observer status on evaluations following a teacher assault scenario.
Main Methods:
- A 2x2x2 between-subjects factorial design was employed.
- Participants included 48 practicing teachers and 48 trainee teachers (Postgraduate Certificate in Education).
- Evaluations of the teacher, assailant, and school were recorded after exposure to a violent incident scenario.
Main Results:
- Classroom environment, teacher intervention, and observer status significantly influenced evaluations of the teacher and school.
- These factors did not significantly affect evaluations of the assailant.
- Differences in perceptions between practicing and training teachers were observed.
Conclusions:
- Findings have implications for developing effective school policies on classroom violence.
- Results can inform teacher training programs regarding intervention strategies and classroom management.
- Maintaining a positive classroom environment is crucial for shaping perceptions of safety and aggression.
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