Challenging behavior is often a source of frustration for parents. Challenging behavior is defined as any behavior that interferes with children's learning and development, is harmful to children and to others, and puts a child at risk for later social problems or school failure (Bailey & Wolery, 1992; Kaiser & Rasminsky, 2003). Children's…

Functional behavior assessment (FBA), although mandated by federal law in situations involving students with emotional and behavioral disorders, is not well defined in the literature in terms of how it should best be undertaken in widespread practice in schools. Functional behavior assessment can be defined as a process for determining the reason…

In recent years, the response to intervention (RTI) model has not only gained popularity as an alternate approach to identifying students with learning disabilities but also offered general education teachers a framework for problem solving at the classroom level. The model emphasizes ongoing progress monitoring of student performance to make…

A psychologist provides helpful suggestions for teachers having trouble with negativistic, impulsive, passive-dependent, and anxious children. (CM)

When professionals learn of unethical professional practice by a colleague, they have an ethical obligation to intervene through appropriate evaluation and reporting. Sexual activity between a professional and a client is used as an example, and guidelines are provided for initial approach and evaluation, confidentiality, and the rationale for and…

An American Association of University Women study indicates that 85% of girls and 76% of boys in grades 8-11 have experienced some form of sexual harassment. Recent court decisions underline schools' responsibility for ensuring a safe school environment. Administrators should act to eliminate sexual harassment, educate students, involve parents,…

This brief guide is intended to aid instructors and counselors in helping students who are exhibiting emotional problems or suicidal behavior. Specific clues which indicate that a student is in emotional trouble or is potentially suicidal are listed along with actions which should be taken and crucial mistakes which should be avoided. (DC)

Describes 10 affirmative actions, with suggestions on how to implement them, for handling behavior and learning problems in the classroom. (Author/RK)

This paper presents an outline of questions intended to help teachers analyze their classroom behavior management methods and styles. The questions focus on ways in which teachers can prevent negative behaviors, keep students on task, deal with developing behavior problems, and practice effective classroom management. (PB)

This pamphlet presents a series of tips for teachers to use in establishing classroom discipline. The first 11 tips provide guidance for the teacher in the use of language to maintain discipline: (1) be specific and clear; (2) be simple, brief, and to the point; (3) state directions positively; (4) use hard-line phrases selectively; (5) offer…

This guide provides information on best practices and guidelines for developing, managing, or changing behaviors without the use of aversive or punitive methods. The guidelines are based on regard for the dignity of the child, the attitudes of parents and school personnel, the knowledge that children learn best in a positive environment where they…

This handbook describes the use of corporal punishment, attitudes towards it, and alternatives to it. Topics covered include: (1) a definition of corporal punishment; (2) descriptions and examples of different types; (3) a brief history of its use in schools and society; (4) arguments in favor of its use; (5) arguments for abolition; (6)…

Six steps are provided for addressing the problem of student misconduct: (1) developing a well-publicized districtwide program, (2) creating a task force to develop a misconduct management handbook for teachers, (3) soliciting reactions, (4) field testing the draft, (5) revising the handbook, and (6) followup. (TE)

Guidelines for effectively integrating learning-disabled or behavior problem students into regular classrooms are discussed. They include meetings between regular and special education teachers, class rules, discipline, clear directions, individualized instruction, direct instruction for skill acquisition, peer tutoring, structured activities,…

The purpose of this research report is to explore practices that teachers can use to respond to behavior problems in their classes. Preliminary discussion focuses on understanding the context of student behavior and identifying student behavior problems early. Positive responses to student behavior problems are discussed in terms of the following…