From classrooms to breakrooms, violence has dominated the list of community concerns for decades. Everyone has a need to learn or work in a safe environment. At Cracker Barrel, we have a “zero tolerance” policy for workplace violence in all forms; offensive gestures, verbal threats or physical force. Studies have shown that preventing violence starts with establishing a positive environment and enlisting everyone’s support to maintain high standards of how to treat people. Working together is the key.1 In 1999 the U.S. Departments of Education, Health, Human Services and Justice worked together to design a program called “Partnerships for Preventing Violence.” This comprehensive effort concluded that:

Violence is a learned behavior and can be unlearned.
Everybody can contribute to violence prevention; including young people.
Violence is a complex problem that requires a comprehensive, coordinated response.
Working together is more effective than isolated, individual efforts. 2

In recognition of National Youth Violence Prevention Month, addressing threatening, “bullying” behavior in our schools is a way to engage our youth as part of the solution. In the United States, almost 30% of students in grades 6-10 reported to be involved in bullying, a target of bullying, or both. Bullying occurs when a student feels made fun of by the way they look or talk, is hit or pushed or intimidated. Females are more likely to be targets of gossip or sexual comments. Not surprisingly, males are more likely to report being pushed or hit. Studies have shown that like workplace prevention efforts, schools can effectively reduce “bullying”. Important strategies in schools include:

Increase teacher and parent awareness, supervision and involvement.
Design clear school rules to protect all students.
Enlist all school staff in participating in a “zero tolerance” school.
Have students commit to creating a safe environment. 3

Treating people with dignity and respect is important in our workplaces, schools and communities. Being aware when others are being treated poorly and doing nothing encourages a negative environment. Speaking out, valuing the worth of everyone and setting a high standard in treating others well creates a “zero tolerance” setting. When we work together, whether on the job or in school, we increase the likelihood of a positive, safe environment.

Contact the EAP Helpline at 1-800-688-6330 for confidential assistance.

Written by Bill Aldrich, Manager of Cracker Barrel EAP Services
March, 2005

References:
1. National Youth Violence Prevention Prevention Resource Center – 1-866- SAFEYOUTH. www.Safeyouth.org
2. Partners Against Violence Network (PAVNET) www.pavnet
3. Nansel, T.R., Overpeck, M., Pilla, R. S., W. J. Simons-Morton, B., & Scheidt, P. (2001) Bullying Behaviors among US
Youth: Prevalence and Association With Psychosocial Adjustment., 285(16), 2094-2100.

For more information, read RESPECT IN THE WORKPLACE

Brochures available for mailing from our office on this topic:

Anger Management

Communication Skills

Conflict Resolution

Preventing Violence at Work

Call 1-800-688-6330 to order, or email us.

MARCH is National Youth Violence Prevention Month

To find resources for professionals, parents and youth working to prevent violence committed by and against young people, visit:

The National Youth Violence Prevention Resource Center

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