The number of students at public elementary, junior high and high schools detained by police or taken to family courts for problematic behavior fell 15.4 percent in fiscal 2002 from the previous year to 4,317, according to an education ministry report released Friday.
The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology survey shows declines in all major categories of behavior, including bullying, truancy and school suspensions. Suicide is also included.
Reports of bullying and disciplinary problems among Japanese students have drawn attention in recent years. While the statistics suggest the problems are receding, teachers are not convinced.