Students' Willingness to Seek Help from School Rabbis for Dealing with School Violence

Many religious schools view pastoral care as an important part of school and schooling. However, the way religious guidance is integrated into the school context is mostly unknown. In the present study we focused on the role of school rabbis in providing help to students for dealing with violence in school. Both qualitative and quantitative methods were used to study the prevalence and the factors that enhance students' willingness to approach rabbis for help. It was found that most students did not seek help at all. Of those who did seek help, one of every four to six students sought help from their school rabbi. Results show that a clear definition of the rabbi's role and positive personal relationships with students are the main factors that enhance help seeking. The great potential of pastoral care for students in school is discussed.