What's to Blame When Children Sexually Offend?

June 5, 2006 — -- A dozen boys between 6 and 8 years old allegedly pinned down an 8-year-old classmate during recess at their St. Louis elementary school, and kissed and fondled her, according to published reports.

The incident shocked school officials and an entire community.

"I am personally appalled," said Creg E. Williams, superintendent of the St. Louis Public School District. "I am outraged that young boys would have such a thing in their minds at 6 or 7 years old. I think I spent a little bit of time in shock myself."

The alleged attack in May led to the suspension of 10 boys and in-school suspension of two, and all will be transferred to different schools next year, Williams said, adding that the victim was OK physically.

"Emotionally, there are some scars, and we've got to help her and the family," he said. "There's some emotional trauma that has taken place."

As the district moves forward, questions remain about what could lead such young children to commit such a violent act and how schools should prevent similar incidents. Experts say that such episodes occur more than most people realize and that often a combination of societal factors and childhood trauma precede abuse.

"It never ceases to be a shocking thing when you hear about it, but unfortunately it's not unheard of," said Maurice Elias, a professor of psychology who studies school and child issues at Rutgers University and is director of the Rutgers Social-Emotional Learning Lab. "It's one of many examples of inappropriate sexualized behavior on the part of young children."

Williams said the incident was not the first time young students in his district had been involved in surprising conduct.

"I think overall I'm seeing an increase in the poor behavior of young children," he said. "It's not all sexual but just disciplinary infractions. … [They are] a little bit more aggressive, a little bit more in tune to current-day violence, which is really what's frightening to me. They see a lot in their homes, they see a lot on television, and they hear a lot in music, not to mention some of the video games they play."