Rates of violence and aggression against educators have risen to concerning levels, according to a new study led by Susan Dvorak McMahon, a psychologist at DePaul University. The research, published in the American Psychologist journal, surveyed nearly 15,000 educators from pre-K through 12th grade before and during COVID-19 restrictions and nearly 12,000 after restrictions ended.

"This is one of the first national studies to examine experiences across stakeholders and offenders in the context of COVID-19 and how violence relates to stress and anxiety and intentions to transfer or quit the profession," said McMahon.

The findings cover all 50 states and Puerto Rico, involving teachers, school psychologists, social workers, counselors, staff members, and administrators. The study reveals that violence directed at educators by students, parents, colleagues, and administrators was significant before COVID-19. While it decreased during pandemic restrictions, it returned to pre-pandemic levels or higher once restrictions were lifted.

"Violence is a major public health issue in the U.S. and around the world. We need to take a holistic approach in understanding different types of violence," McMahon added.

Key findings include:

- An increase in verbal threats and physical violence against teachers post-COVID-19 compared to pre-pandemic levels.

- Among teachers surveyed: 80% reported verbal or threatening aggression from students; 56% experienced physical violence from students; post-pandemic reports indicated high instances of physical violence from parents (26%), colleagues (27%), or administrators (26%).

- Over half of the teachers (57%) planned to quit due to experiences with violence.

- Anxiety and stress levels rose dramatically during and after COVID-19 restrictions.

- More than half of participants expressed a need for training in trauma-informed practices among other strategies.

"These rates add to our understanding of the pervasiveness of violence across school stakeholders," McMahon noted. "This study highlights that violence in schools requires immediate attention."

Researchers recommend systemic approaches addressing aggression from multiple perspectives. In March 2022, initial findings were presented to congressional members aiming for legislation supporting educator training and mental health programs.

"We need a comprehensive whole-school approach for building positive schools," McMahon stated. "There is a clear need for better training for educators."

Researchers suggest district leaders engage school personnel in ongoing discussions about school practices. They also urge policymakers to ensure schools have adequate resources.

McMahon emphasizes addressing the crisis of educators leaving due to violent experiences: "Our study provides guidance on what educators feel they need in terms of training."

To read the full study visit American Psychologist's website​.

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