The central problem examined in this dissertation is the rapid increase in violence and disorder in American public schools. The extent and types of disruption are described and analyzed. School disorders have been divided into two broad categories: 1) school disorder relating to problems of ideological conflict and dissent, and 2) school disorders related to violent and criminal offenses and disruptions. A detailed analysis of school disorders was undertaken. First, there was an examination of in-school causes. Secondly, an analysis was made of social, cultural, and community causes. Finally, a number of short term and long-term strategies were suggested for alleviating the serious problems of violence occurring in public schools. Models suggested as basic categories were: 1) ideological (student boycott, walkout, strike, or picketing, and others), 2) violent and criminal offenses (student-teacher physical confrontation or attack, riots and student fighting, vandalism, student abuse and use of drugs, and others). (Author/AM)