Italian study finds over 43% of teens involved in violence

(Adnkronos) – The ESPAD Italy 2025 survey, carried out by the Institute of Clinical Physiology of the Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR‑Ifc), analysed more than 17,000 questionnaires from students aged 15‑19. It shows that 43.4% of those adolescents reported having taken part in or been the target of at least one violent act during 2025, with a clear gender gap – 49.8% of males versus 37.2% of females.

Fights were the most frequent episode. High‑criticality behaviours such as assaults on teachers and the use of weapons to extort have almost tripled since 2018. Digital violence is also rising: 11% of respondents said they had watched violent scenes filmed and shared online, a figure that has doubled in seven years.

The study links violent conduct to poor relationships with teachers, families or peers and to illegal substance use, while highlighting protective factors such as positive parental dialogue and regular reading. Researchers call for a structural response that includes emotional‑competence training, digital‑education programmes and coordinated action among schools, families and territorial services.

The Coordinamento Nazionale Docenti della disciplina dei Diritti Umani (CNDDU) has urged Education Minister Giuseppe Valditara to establish a permanent national governance system to continuously monitor school relational climates and provide ongoing socio‑emotional training for teachers.