Because of a high vacancy rate and widespread vandalism in its highrise dormitories, the University of Massachusetts commissioned an environmental consultant to assess the problem. A two-year study showed that occupancy increased and vandalism decreased in an experimental dormitory where students were allowed greater freedom to arrange their own…

The objective of this study was to identify, describe, and appraise existing behavior-oriented, vandalism-prevention programs using a case-study approach. This report summarizes an investigation of three programs in Ontario (Canada): Project PRIDE (Pupils Responsible in Determining their own Environment); Operation Aware; and a Diversion program.…

This report is a preliminary review of violence, vandalism, and drug abuse data submitted to the New Jersey Department of Education by its school districts. The purpose of the report is to present an empirical data base on crime and disruption in the schools that was previously unavailable, and to provide information to assist the department in…

One of 52 theoretical papers on school crime and its relation to poverty, this chapter claims that considering school crime as primarily a manifestation of conduct disorder permits a better understanding of its nature, origin, and treatment. Research into the nature and origin of conduct disorder is discussed. Studies demonstrating successful…

One of 52 theoretical papers on school crime and its relation to poverty, this chapter contends that the Appalachian child has a set of values not yet understood by outsiders that influence behavior and lead to misbehavior that is not understood. Greater understanding of Appalachian values would assist observers in understanding that those…

This pamphlet contains the text of and hearings on a House bill for improving the security of schools. The bill is designed to provide financial assistance to aid local educational agencies to meet special needs incident to providing security for children, employees, and facilities in elementary and secondary schools through the reduction and…

In recent times, adequate space for education has become critical and fewer dollars are available for new school construction. Recently built facilities are sometimes overcrowded and often lack the flexibility to respond to new concepts of educational programing. As a result, planners are turning to other means for solving critical space needs…

This speech discusses security measures that could be implemented in school buildings to reduce vandalism and its associated costs. Some suggested methods for reducing vandalism include (1) employment of security guards, (2) 24-hour deployment of custodial staff, (3) installation of unbreakable doors and tamper-proof locks, and (4) use of an…

The author contends that safety and accident prevention should be given primary consideration in a school system's risk management program. He argues that accidents and losses are symptoms of defects in the management system. Two classes of loss discussed are (1) accidental -- injury/loss resulting from unintended events; and (2) purposeful --…

Attempts to identify features for lessening vandalism for consideration in the planning of educational facilities. Members of the National Association of School Security Directors were asked what features they would recommend in planning a new school building resistant to vandalism. 363 features in 24 major categories were identified as acceptable…

This article argues that educational practice regarding school violence is little influenced by the scholarship of social scientists, and that educational decision makers have been attempting to develop innovations with minimal stress on theoretical analysis. (Author/AM)

Selected statistics and findings from HEW's Safe School Study are summarized here, revealing that the secondary school principal is a key figure in reducing school crime and violence. (Author)

Available from: Security World Publishing Co., Inc., P.O. Box 272, Culver City, California 90230.

If they are to enlisted to help reduce vandalism, student council members must receive accurate information and learn that vandalism is costly, that common sense doesn't provide all the answers concerning it, and that the public's reaction to vandalism cannot be predicted accurately. (MJL)