Best Practices for Behavior Disorders in the Classroom

Students with Emotional or Behavior Disorders have many characteristics that hinder academic and social growth.

Characteristics of a behavior disorder are usually evident and persistent in different settings and environment and usually with little respect or regards for social or cultural norms.

Academic Implications

• Disruptive to classroom activity.
• Impulsive.
• Inattentive, distractible.
• Appears pre-occupied.
• Disregards all classroom rules.
• Poor concentration.
• Extreme resistance to change and transitions.
• Speaks out, repeatedly.
• Is aggressive.
• Bullies and intimidates others.
• Regular truancy from school.
• Dishonest, consistently blames others.
• Low self esteem.
• Unable to work in groups.
• Engages in self injurious behavior.
• Has no regard for personal space and belongings.
• Persistently tries to manipulate situations.

Best Practices and Accommodations

• Develop consistent behavior expectations.
• Involve the student in setting academic and personal goals.
• Engage in role playing situations.
• Communicate with parents so that strategies are consistent at home and school.
• Set limits and boundaries.
• Apply established consequences immediately, fairly and consistently.
• Acknowledge and reinforce acceptable behavior.
• Avoid confrontation and power struggles.
• Provide a highly structured classroom environment.
• Clearly post rules and expectations.
• Establish a quiet cool off area.
• Provide and teach opportunities for the student to use self control/self monitoring techniques to control behavior.
• Teach self talk to relieve stress and anxiety.
• Teach and provide time for relaxation techniques.
• Establish cues as reminders for inappropriate behavior.
• Redirect to avoid situations that may increase anxiety levels.
• Remain calm and aware of your body language when addressing the student.
• Provide a positive and encouraging classroom environment.
• Use a study carrel.
• Use visually stimulating material for assignments/learning presentations.
• Use specialized technology and software.
• Develop and use behavior contracts.
• Give frequent feedback.