Violence-related behaviors on school property among Mississippi and the U.S. high school students, 2001-2021

This study aims to examine the prevalence and trends of violence-related behaviors on school property among high school students in Mississippi as compared to the United States (U.S.) using the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) data.

This study utilized U.S. and Mississippi YRBSS 2001-2021 data downloaded from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) public domain. Prevalence difference and prevalence ratio were calculated. Logistic regression models were applied to detect linear or higher-dimensional trends. Log-odds ratios for each variable were estimated as a function of time (year), time in quadratic terms, and time in cubic terms, respectively.

Higher prevalence rates of weapon carrying, being threatened or injured with a weapon, and engaging in physical fights on school property were shown in male and Hispanic students. Ninth graders exhibited a higher prevalence of being in a physical fight when compared to 12th graders. Additionally, Mississippi had no significant reduction in such behaviors over 20 years despite the declining trends in the country.

This study emphasizes the urgency for targeted violence prevention strategies in Mississippi. Multisectoral approaches, including school-based programs, community involvement, and increased mental health services, can be considered to address these issues.