PreventiveTechniquesfor ChallengingBehavior

How to maintain a healthy, enjoyable, and safe academic environment.

Workthroughchallengesinapositive,non aggressiveway

Eliminatethepowerstruggle

Do not try to intimidate or give ultimatums

PositiveReinforcement
OProvide positive reinforcement in the form of

praise or a reward for all desired behavior. OPositive reinforcement will result in increased awareness of expectations and increased self-esteem. OCatch them being good.

TherapeuticRelationship
OAlways maintain the students dignity OShow that you care by communicating with

respect ORules without a relationship leads to rebellion Josh McDowell

PersonalAect
OGive personal space OBe aware of your facial

expressions, spacing, gestures, postures, and movements.

Communication
OBe aware of:
OTone Avoid condescension,

sarcasm, or anger OVolume Keep an even low volume OCadence Speak calmly and slowly OOverall Remain patient and respectful

VerbalDeescalation
OIf a student says no or refuses a task:
OAvoid bargaining OProvide choices ORemain calm ORemove from an audience

Becondent
ODecrease your own fear and anxiety as

students will pick up on your lack of confidence OFind personal calming techniques to employ O Reflect on your interactions with students to see if you can improve OSeek additional help an support when you are unable to remain calm or effective

References

Owww.interventioncentral.org -choice Owww.associatedcontent.com - positive reinforcement Ospecialed.about.com - power struggle