The Dual Nature of School's Impact on Youth

Schools are traditionally viewed as beneficial environments for children, offering essential resources such as food, adult supervision, and educational support. However, recent findings indicate that while schools provide these advantages, they may also contribute to negative outcomes, such as increased rates of crime and mental health issues, particularly during the school year. Research shows that, surprisingly, juvenile crime peaks during the school year, contradicting prior beliefs that summer would be the most problematic season. The complexities of student interactions and school dynamics potentially catalyze delinquent behavior, raising questions about the environment schools create for youth.