IntroductionHigh school is an important time of personal and social development. It is a time when adolescents must deal with complex social hierarchies, academic pressures and the quest for personal identity. Among the myriad challenges students face, one particular phenomenon emerges: disdain for freshmen from upperclassmen. This essay aims to explore the roots of this animosity, examine its manifestations, and propose strategies for fostering a more inclusive school environment. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essayBody ParagraphAnimosity toward high school freshmen can be attributed to several underlying factors. One of the main reasons is the hierarchical nature of social structures in high school. Freshmen, being new to the high school environment, are often perceived as naive and inexperienced. This perception can lead to them being marginalized or even bullied by older students. According to sociological theories, such behavior can be attributed to older students' need to assert dominance and maintain their social status. By belittling freshmen, upperclassmen reinforce their own sense of superiority and control within the school's social hierarchy. Additionally, the transition from middle school to high school is a significant leap for freshmen, both academically and socially. First-year students are often seen as having difficulty adjusting to increased academic workload, new social dynamics, and the overall school environment. This struggle can be interpreted by the upper classes as a sign of weakness or incompetence, further fueling their contempt. Additionally, freshmen may exhibit behaviors that are perceived as immature or annoying by older students, such as excessive enthusiasm or a lack of understanding of high school norms and traditions. These behaviors can trigger negative attitudes and treatment from upper-class men. The phenomenon of freshman hatred is not limited to individual interactions but can also manifest itself in institutional practices. For example, some schools have traditions or events specifically designed to "initiate" freshmen, often in a humiliating or demeaning way. Although these practices are often justified as rites of passage or bonding experiences, they can perpetuate a culture of exclusivity and hostility toward newcomers. Such institutionalized practices can have lasting effects on school climate, making it difficult for first-year students to feel welcomed and included in the school community. However, it is important to recognize that not all upperclassmen participate in or tolerate the mistreatment of freshmen. There are many cases where older students take on mentor roles, helping freshmen navigate the challenges of high school. For example, peer mentoring programs have been shown to significantly improve the first-year student experience by providing guidance, support and a sense of belonging. These programs can help break down barriers between grade levels and.