Should Schools Do More To Help Students Build Friendships?   

• Introduction Friendships can make school more enjoyable and help students feel supported during difficult times. However, making and keeping friends is not always easy. Some people believe schools should play a bigger role in helping students connect, while others think friendships should develop naturally. What do you think? Constructive Debater 1 Loren Schools should do more to help students build friendships because strong friendships support mental health and well-being. Research shows that school programs can reduce loneliness, encourage students to seek help, and teach them how to support others. Schools can create more opportunities for teamwork, class discussions, and shared activities that help students get to know one another. The goal is not to choose friends for students, but to give them the skills and opportunities to build healthy, supportive relationships on their own. Debater 2 Olivia Schools shouldn’t invest too much into helping students build friendships because there is still limited evidence that these programs work over the long term. While some studies show short-term benefits, it is often unclear whether students actually form stronger friendships. A school program may improve confidence or communication without creating lasting relationships. Schools should focus on providing a welcoming environment for everyone, but they should avoid spending too much time on programs whose long-term results have not been clearly proven. Rebuttal Debater 1 Loren That concern is understandable, but limited evidence should not stop schools from helping students connect. Schools already influence friendships through group projects, clubs, and classroom activities. And without active support, students who have fallen by the wayside may continue to feel left out. Research shows school programs can help students learn useful skills, such as listening more, accepting help, and offering support without being overbearing. Schools are not trying to manufacture friendships. They are simply giving students more opportunities and guidance to build meaningful relationships. Debater 2 Olivia Those points are important, but schools should be careful not to take on too much. Friendships grow naturally and cannot be created through organized programs alone. If schools place too much responsibility on classmates, students may feel pressured to solve problems they are not prepared to handle. Instead, schools should focus on creating a respectful, welcoming environment where everyone feels included. Teachers and counselors should provide support when needed, while allowing friendships to develop naturally through everyday interactions and shared experiences. Judge’s Comments Both sides made strong points. Schools can reduce isolation by creating chances for students to connect, but friendship should not be forced. The best approach may be to provide support carefully: teach kindness, encourage help-seeking, and keep adults responsible. May For The Junior Times junior/1784007523/1613368104