The earliest reports of school violence in the 17th century focused on violence committed by teachers against students, or what came to be known as corporal punishment. Teachers continued to use violence against disruptive students through the 18th and 19th centuries. In the early 20th century, a classic study showed teachers regarded the most serious behavior problems of students as disrespect for authority, dishonesty, immorality, rule violations, lack of orderliness, and lack of interest in school work. In the 1990's, parents indicated drugs and violence were their greatest concerns in schools. School discipline problems have changed significantly since the 1920's, with students committing more offenses and the gravity of such offenses increasing. Current estimates indicate that approximately 100,000 children in the United States take a gun to school each day and that 160,000 will miss school due to fear of injury. Other problems facing students in schools include sexual harassment, bullying, vandalism, theft, and alcohol and drug abuse. Possible causes of school violence are linked to the educational system, lack of communication, peer pressure and transitions, and antisocial and at-risk young people. Traditional and modern theories of school violence causation are examined. Possible solutions to school violence are offered that focus on parental involvement, educational strategies, and school safety plans. Additional research is recommended to explore causes of school violence and to prevent drug use and violence that affect so many young people in the United States. 50 references and 2 tables