From kindergarten to my freshman year of high school, I woke up every morning and put on a polo shirt and plaid skirt. The exact same outfit every single day.
I hated wearing uniforms for as long as I can remember. I wanted to wear clothes I actually got to pick out, but that wasn’t an option. The one clothing item I got to choose was my socks, and guess what? I now have an enormous sock collection that I am weirdly protective of.
The only positive thing I have to say about uniforms is that if I woke up late or was feeling lazy, it was easy to throw on. Supporters of uniforms argue that uniformsincrease attendance and a sense of community,which is supposed to lead to less bullying and fighting.
Let me tell you, from firsthand experience, this is not true.
I have never been in a more toxic environment than during my years in a uniform. According to a 2022 nationwide study from theEarly Childhood Research Quarterly, the argued benefits of uniforms did not hold up.
The study had teachers rate students in three categories: internalizing behavior (anxiety, social withdrawal), externalizing problems (aggression, fighting, destruction of property) and social skills. The teachers also provided attendance records.
According to the study, school uniforms did not have a positive impact in any of the categories and lowered the sense of belonging among students, with few exceptions. How are you supposed to feel like you belong when a basic aspect of individualism, such as fashion, is taken away?
Uniforms can also affect self-image and body type perceptions. When all the students are wearing the same thing, it’s not hard to start comparing yourself to your peers. There are tons of uniquebody types, and uniforms take away the right to wear what makes you feel confident in your own skin.
Uniforms also rely on serious gender stereotyping. Girls wear skirts, and boys wear pants.
At such a young age, this stereotype could bedetrimental to those in the LGBTQ+ community. Children and teenagers who are questioning their gender identity are forced into these gender stereotypes through uniforms.
Individualism and independence are core values in America. Uniforms create conformity — quite literally the opposite of individualism. Differences should always be valued, and uniforms send a clear message that it’s better to be the same.
FAQs
Uniforms can also affect self-image and body type perceptions. When all the students are wearing the same thing, it's not hard to start comparing yourself to your peers. There are tons of unique body types, and uniforms take away the right to wear what makes you feel confident in your own skin.
How many students hate school uniforms? ›
Of the 1,634 responses gathered from parents, students and teachers, 52% of the respondents shared that they strongly dislike the current school uniform policy, with another 20% saying they don't like it.
Why do some people like uniforms? ›
Uniforms can also help people feel more comfortable. Would you feel more comfortable if a doctor was wearing a white coat or shorts and sandals? Uniforms are also an important part of military service. Soldiers wear uniforms to increase identification with their fellow soldiers and their mission.
Are students happier with or without school uniforms? ›
Kids who were required to wear school uniforms tended to feel less close to teachers and classmates. So — for these 6300 kids — school uniforms didn't seem deliver any substantial psychological benefits. And that was true whether kids attended public or private schools.
Why do people not like uniforms? ›
Some uniforms may strike students and parents as sexist. For example, if a uniform requires girls to wear skirts and pants are not allowed, some students and parents may object, leading to conflict with the school administration.
Are uniforms good or bad? ›
In general, students in schools that required school uniforms did not demonstrate better social skills, internalizing and externalizing behavior, or school attendance as compared with students in schools without school uniforms. These associations were true across both public and private schools.
Do uniforms stop bullying? ›
School uniforms do not stop bullying and can actually increase violent attacks. “Overall, there is no evidence in bullying literature that supports a reduction in violence due to school uniforms, explains Tony Volk, Associate Professor at Brock University. The oft-quoted improvements to…
Why don't uniforms stop bullying? ›
“While uniforms are supposed to build a sense of community, they may have the opposite effect,” he said. “Fashion is one way that students express themselves, and that may be an important part of the school experience. When students can't show their individuality, they may not feel like they belong as much.”
Do uniforms reduce bullying? ›
One of the best ways to promote equality and reduce bullying is through the use of school uniforms. Many children are often bullied because they dress differently or can't afford to wear name-brand clothes.
Do girls like men in uniform? ›
Men in uniform, whether they are Navy or Army officers, are often seen as attractive by women. This is because they are perceived as symbols of authority and responsibility, which can be appealing. Additionally, their well-groomed appearance and attention to detail in their uniforms can be a turn-on.
47% of students reported that they find school uniforms uncomfortable to wear. The issue worsens for children with a disability, in particular those with sensory needs such as Autism and ADHD.
Can school uniforms be expensive? ›
The cost of school uniforms can vary significantly depending on factors such as the materials' quality, the retailer's, and the specific items required (e.g., blazers tend to be more expensive than polo shirts).
Do school uniforms save money? ›
One of the benefits of having students wear school uniforms is that the families save money! School uniforms help students save money because they limit the amount of clothing a student needs to purchase. By wearing a uniform, the student spends less money on everyday clothes thus lowering their overall clothing cost.
Is school uniform a good idea? ›
School uniforms keep students focused on their education, not their clothes. School uniforms create a level playing field among students, reducing peer pressure and bullying. Wearing uniforms enhances school pride, unity, and community spirit. School uniforms may improve attendance and discipline.
Why are school uniforms so expensive? ›
The high cost was partly attributed to the prevalence of branded items that have to be bought from a specialist shop or the school, with pupils requiring an average of three.
Why do uniforms make students uncomfortable? ›
For many students, their clothing is a way to express their personal style and identity. With uniforms, students are not able to wear the clothing that makes them feel comfortable and confident. This can be especially difficult for students who are already struggling with their identity or self-esteem.
How does not wearing school uniforms affect students? ›
In general, students in schools that required school uniforms did not demonstrate better social skills, internalizing and externalizing behavior, or school attendance as compared with students in schools without school uniforms. These associations were true across both public and private schools.
Do uniforms make students insecure? ›
Studies show that uniforms reduce anxiety about appearance and promote self-confidence through a feeling of belonging.
Why shouldn't we wear school uniforms essay? ›
Uniforms do not let students express themselves, promote conformity over individuality, and do not improve attendance, academic preparedness, or test results. School uniforms do not allow students to express themselves through their clothes. They take away the freedom of expression (the first amendment).
