What People Think About Student Uniforms
Student uniforms are often required in private, religious, and preparatory schools in the United States. In other countries, uniforms are worn in primary and secondary schools as well as at universities. Schools switching to using school uniforms are on the rise, despite whether they are a public or private institution. Because of this, much controversy has been generated as to whether switching to student uniforms is a positive change.
The use of school uniforms is often viewed as a beneficial change by some people. They argue that student uniforms will prevent students from ostracizing others due to what they wear, and that students will no longer be teased by their choice of clothing. By requiring everyone to look the same, barriers based on outward appearances will be broken down and children will be forced to interact on a deeper level. It is thought that uniforms bolster school spirit and a sense of unity when everyone is dressed the same. Parents who are inconvenienced by their children insisting they buy them the latest designer jeans or newest fad will be able to save money with the implementation of student uniforms. On a safety level, uniforms serve an important purpose of helping identify outsiders that should not be present on school grounds.
In contrast to the group that likes the idea of student uniforms is the group that is adamantly opposed to them. They argue that student uniforms will take away children’s identities during a time when they are trying to discover and define who they are. Many young adults use their clothing as a form of self-expression; taking away their clothing choice would be a violation of their freedom. While children will no longer be able to form opinions about others based on their clothing choices, they may still make outward judgments based on such traits as beauty or body size.
Cost is also an issue with student uniforms. While requiring the purchase of uniforms could put a stop to purchasing high cost designer clothing and ever changing styles, student uniforms could also cause a financial burden for families that regularly shop at second-hand shops and thrift stores. Uniforms that require regulation shoes, pants, skirts, shirts, blouses and overcoats could get very expensive for some families.