Modifications

Crisis Intervention

Many behavior disordered students have extreme difficulties in the schools which can result in crisis situations. These situations are those where danger is present to the student or others around him/her. Obviously, the IEP can not be checked prior to dealing with these instances. The two priorities during these times are to protect the people (students and staff) in close proximity from harm and to lower the activity of the student who is losing control. The following tips from Crane/Reynolds, Inc. can help those authorities who must confront and defuse the crisis.

In addressing a student who is exhibiting violent or aggressive behavior, teachers should be aware of the guidelines:

• Never grab or touch an acting out or violent student unless he is causing harm to another person or himself.
• Send for assistance. (If possible, always wait for help if you perceive that there may be physical involvement.)
• If a student is threatening, keep a normal distance from him.
• Keep your voice tone normal. Repeat any instructions until the student complies. (Try to remain calm.) If a student is violent or about to hurt another, yell "stop" and the student's name, then lower your voice. Screaming many words or threatening only confuses or further elevates the student's activity level.
• Immediately try to get the aggressive student into isolation where he/she can calm down. Talk to him/her in a low, calm voice or remain silent.
• Do not leave the student alone until,he/she visibly calms down. (You might have another adult stay with him if you cannot.)
• Discuss his behavior and the consequences of his behavior only after he/she has become calm.