SCHOOL-PSYCHOLOGISTS PERCEPTIONS OF PHYSICALLY AGGRESSIVE STUDENT BEHAVIOR AS A REFERRAL CONCERN IN NONURBAN DISTRICTS

This survey questioned practicing school psychologists in the state of Wisconsin regarding their experience with the number of behavioral referrals for which physically aggressive behavior was the principal concern. Increases of at least a moderate degree were perceived by school psychologists across grade levels. Survey items further investigated school psychologists' perceptions regarding the stability of teacher-assault incidences and weapons violations over the past 10 years. Implications for an expanded role for the school psychologist in prevention and intervention procedures are discussed.