ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of the role of social emotional learning (SEL) plays in reducing school violence. Due to the prevalence of school violence, it is paramount for counselors to integrate SEL into the core curriculum. The majority of perpetrators carrying out acts of violence are looking to seek revenge. In regard to perpetrator characteristics, students experiencing loss and grief, having issues with anger management, struggling with mental health issues, experiencing behavioral issues, and lacking parental or family involvement are potentially more at risk. Although SEL cannot in itself eradicate school violence, it can teach students necessary skills and competencies that will help them to express and manage their emotions in healthier ways; leading to a reduction in school violence. This chapter also addresses a variety of evidence-based prevention strategies that can be integrated into schools in order to reduce school violence.
