Smartphones with video capability are nothing new, and social media has been around for decades. Yet further advancements in technology, new social media features, and communication apps have increased the number of fights among students. This is especially true for those in middle and high school. Schools are working to counter this trend by limiting student cellphone use and disciplining students involved in these violent behaviors.

If you or your child faces disciplinary action by their middle or high school for their involvement in a fight, contact the Lento Law Firm. Our Student Defense Team consists of skilled attorneys with years of experience representing high school and middle school students facing dismissal, suspension, or other academic sanctions. To learn how we can help, call us at 888-535-3686 or use our online contact form.

How Phones and Social Media Fuel Student Fights

Many schools have had to deal with their students fighting. But there are several potential reasons why the last few years have seen an uptick in the number of fights, how they start, why they start, and the people affected by those fights.

First, more students have smartphones that can not only access the Internet, but come equipped with high-resolution video cameras. This makes it easier for students to record a fight and post it online.

Second, the continued growth of social media offers students an easy way to publicize a fight. This will often bring continued harm in that the bullying from school continues online even when the child is at home.

Third, there are special apps that allow students to communicate privately. Most parents and school officials are unaware of these secret channels. With no adult oversight, they engage in online disputes which may eventually manifest into in-person fights during school hours. Then, when these fights occur, students take video recordings and share them privately online.

Why More Student Fights Take Place

In addition to the above-referenced reasons, another possible explanation for this increase in fighting is because of the coronavirus pandemic. After spending so much time in remote learning, when students finally returned to school in 2021, some students had trouble managing their emotions and communicating with their peers. This would lead to more fights and bullying.

Consequences for Being Involved in Phone-Fueled Fights

The punishments for school violence remain largely unchanged. Temporary suspensions and permanent expulsions are possible for students who instigate a fight or take part in it. Students not involved in the fight, but who document it with their cellphones risk getting in trouble as well. These students could face punishment if recording the fight resulted in a violation of the school's cellphone use policy.

Get Help When Facing Professionalism Charges

Cellphones and social media may be responsible for causing more fights and worsening the negative effects of those fights. However, they can also provide school officials with more information to identify those involved. The Student Defense Team of the Lento Law Firm can help if you or your child has been accused of contributing to a fight, posting a recorded fight online, or harassing someone online in response to a fight video. You can reach us at 888-535-3686 or through our online contact form.