Students in Public Schools Should be Required to Purchase and Wear Uniforms - Essay Example

Vandalism in schools is actively discouraged by the implementation of a uniform dress code, as vandals usually hide behind the anonymity of hooded sweatshirts. The formation of gangs in schools, and the related violence and rivalry, are reduced by the absence of gang-identified clothes. At the same time, uniforms eliminate expensive items of clothing which leads to jealousy and theft. The secure school environment established by a uniform dress code creates an atmosphere of sharing which in turn leads to increased self-esteem.

School uniforms contribute to the development of self-esteem in public school students. This is an off-shoot of the fact that self-esteem is significantly linked to attire in the case of most adolescents. This is large because clothes are an indication of the student’s economic background. The difference in dress leads to the differentiation between rich and poor students. As clothes make a statement, student identities become linked to their clothes. Those who are unable to keep up with the latest fashion trends risk being teased by their wealthier peers. There is also the risk of teachers being unconsciously influenced by the affluence of students as reflected by their clothes. This may lead to differential treatment of students in class. A uniform dress code eliminates differences based on the student’s home environment and gives students the opportunity to be judged completely on the basis of their abilities. The resulting increase in self-esteem leads to improved academic performance.

Academic performance is improved by a uniform dress code as the distraction of dressing fashionably for school is eliminated. Conflict with parents over what constitutes appropriate attire for school is also avoided. As there is no need to spend time choosing clothes and accessories for school every morning, there is more time for studying at home. At the same time, punctuality, and attendance at the first classroom session in schools, are improved.  As uniforms eliminate the need for school teachers to monitor students’ attire, more time is devoted to academic instruction. Students are also spared the distraction of observing the clothes of their peers and trying to keep up with fashions. This allows them to focus on academics and improve their performance. Read More