BERLIN – German scientists are trying to develop a way to detect when students are planning massacres.
They say that youths who commit atrocities like those at Columbine or Red Lake usually provide warning signs that something is wrong. Scientists will analyze the indicators and develop an early-warning system.
They hope to be able to provide a checklist teachers can use to determine if misbehaving students have darker motives. A handbook would also be created so police and school officials can provide appropriate psychological assistance.
The study will also take into consideration other factors besides threats, such as a student’s ability to make friends, parental supervision and history of abuse.
The project should take about two years to complete.
