Behavioral Warning Signs of Violent Behavior

If a student or any other person on campus shares information or behaves in a way that leads you to believe he or she could harm himself/herself or others, you are obligated to report that information to the appropriate University administrator. You can make a report to either the Dean of Students, Chief of Police or Associate Vice President for Human Resources and Special Assistant to the President.

While it’s almost impossible to identify a person who wants to commit an act of violence, according to the American Psychological Association, violence is a serious possibility if a number of these warning signs are witnessed:

• Repeated loss of temper
• Frequent physical fighting
• Vandalism or property damage
• Increased use of drugs and alcohol
• Increased demonstration of risk-taking behavior
• Announcing plans or threats to commit acts of violence or hurt others
• Enjoyment in hurting animals
• Carrying, access to or fascination with weapons, especially guns
• Withdrawal from friends and usual activities
• Feelings of rejections and marginalization
• Being a victim of bullying
• Poor school performance
• History of discipline problems or frequent run-ins with authority
• Failing to acknowledge the feelings or rights of others

 

 



 

Copyright 2008 Wittenberg University Post Office Box 720 Springfield, Ohio 45501 800-677-7558
Non-discriminatory Policy      Web Use Policy & Disclaimer      Privacy Policy      © 2008 Wittenberg University