Violence is everywhere. It lurks in every corner of society from our televisions to our schools.

Most recognize this as an issue needing immediate attention. But who receives this attention? Those throwing the punches. But are they the only ones who deserve reprimands and consequences for this violence?

The focus is always on the aggressors, those inflicting physical pain on another. But our attention also needs to be turned to those who indirectly participate in these fights through verbal and nonverbal encouragement.

People have more power and influence than they realize when it comes to what they do and do not applaud. As humans, we enjoy and strive for the approval of others. When certain behavior seems to please surrounding spectators, we will likely continue to indulge in that behavior. If the behavior seems to displease those watching or leave them indifferent, we will likely stop.

“They get more encouraged. They’re like, Oh the public obviously wants it. Let’s do this. Totally makes sense, peer pressure,” Isha Sahasrabudhe (9) said.

One appeal of physical fighting with others is the attention that comes with it.  At school, it does not take long for a fight to draw an audience. Moments after the first punch is thrown and the second fist is raised, a crowd swarms around the contestants with their phones in hand. Within seconds, videos are posted on social media for all to see.

“It pumps them up, makes the fighters feel like they have to fight,” Kayla Mac (12) said.

But what is the purpose in filming a fight, anyway? The recording will not provide further self-satisfaction or a second adrenaline rush.

“Videoing a fight is pointless because you don’t get anything from it,” Sammy Alghalibi (10) said.

By giving school fights this kind of attention, students are encouraging the continuation of physical violence in hallways and classrooms. Recording the ignorant assaults is a form of nonverbal encouragement.

Yet, students also verbally encourage the aggressors. Some chant, “Fight!” while others forcefully suggest what tactics the fighters should use. These praises urge the aggressors to continue, as well as push others to follow in their footsteps later on.

Many students would not fight, at least not at school, without this acclamation. Unfortunately, school is not the only place where brutality is given positive recognition. Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) arenas and boxing rings are also locations where violence is commonly applauded.

UFC fighters are admired and watched by many. People come from all over to cheer on their favorite fighters as they break bones, draw blood and knock out brave challengers. These fighters are paid to entertain spectators by attacking each other. No wonder the violence persists. We are paying people to do the very thing that so many others are trying to stop for the good of society.

It is no different for boxers. Fans give their support by showing up to watch the match and shouting praise throughout the fight.

The onslaughts will not stop or even decrease if people do not take a firm stance against them. Such a stance cannot be taken while holding an anti-violence picket sign in one hand and a phone to record a school fight in the other. Stop applauding aggression with your words and actions. Next time you see a fight, walk the other way.