As you walk through the halls of Mayo High School, you’re bound to notice several students using curse words. This problem has traveled much further than the borders of Rochester; the issue has reached nearly all students across the nation. The language change is largely due to the influence of media such as movies, television shows, music, and social media. The limits of what is regarded as acceptable language in classrooms is a topic that is still under challenge and debate.

This shift in language is not just about what students hear but how they choose to express themselves in daily life. Over time, cursing has become accepted in many areas of our daily lives. What was once regarded as improper and limited to more subdued circumstances is now used more often by the younger generation. With the rise of open media coverage, swearing has been normalized and even expected in some circumstances.

Many kids find swearing a quick approach to communicating emotions or frustrations. Whether they are using it as a sudden reaction or a way to build relationships with friends, students often see swear words as a way to express themselves. With swearing comes a sense of freedom, using powerful language in certain situations. However, while swearing may feel natural to some, it is not accepted academic and professional settings.

Modern society is rife with vulgarities, obscenities, and swear words; as a result, their use among younger generations has been troublesome in classrooms and the halls of academic institutions, which were once places of respect and dignity—at least, that was the attempt. Similarly, businesses do not tolerate that choice of words by their employees, as it may lead to lawsuits, lost revenue, and offended clientele. 

While changing language may seem harmless to some, it causes substantial concern for others, particularly those in the older generations and those in professional settings. Adults view swearing in public or more formal places as disrespectful, unprofessional, and inconsiderate of others within earshot. As students prepare to become independent adults, they have a personal responsibility to filter their language as well.

Students need to gain better self-control and social awareness when it comes to swearing. Primarily, it is not something that is allowed in professional settings, and that needs to be learned before it’s too late. Filtering one’s language should be simple, but correcting the values of the students so they believe more in what they say and the actions portrayed by their language is essential.

Helping students develop proper self-control, higher values, and strong morals is the key to fixing the swearing problem. Self-control is something that can be learned even in old age; people can learn how to correct what they are saying and make the proper decision based on the control they have developed. Allowing students to find proper morals and values is vital to making school a respected place. Students who learn respect and values in their early years will be more capable of providing positivity in their workspace, in school, and real life. When this is seen, and people have proper self-control and a proper set of morals, they become higher-functioning members of society.

Schools need to create an environment of respect and prosperity. This begins with the students; if they are able to use self-control and the morals they have built, they contribute to this goal.

As society evolves, it is vital to recognize that swearing in schools is not about eliminating the stigma around it but changing the pattern overall. It’s about creating a sanctuary for students to learn about their impact and what proper communication can bestow. Schools should strive to provide a favorable environment where kids may freely express themselves and learn the need to select a language that captures their values and who they are. By choosing words that reflect respect and self-control, students can shape a future where communication is both powerful and meaningful without the need for vulgarities and obscenities. How will you use your words to shape the world around you?