Working with Disruptive Individuals

What is disruptive behavior?

Behavior that interferes with the campus's learning environment is considered disruptive.
It is important to recognize that the period of peak anger usually lasts for a brief period of time.

What are some examples…?

Persistent and unreasonable demands for time and attention
Verbally aggressive or defiant behavior
Words or actions that intimidate or harass
Words or actions that cause another to fear for their personal safety

How can I respond to a disruptive person?

SAFETY FIRST
Do not ignore disruptive behavior
Remember that anger usually passes quickly
Calmly let the student know that the behavior is inappropriate
Disruptive behavior should be documented

DO:

Use silence to allow the student to tell you what is upsetting them
Acknowledge the feelings of the individual
Be firm, steady, consistent, and honest
Focus on what you can do to help the student problem solve
Make personal referrals to appropriate resources

Communicate your concerns with the Dean of Students: Kimberly Barrows (406-353-2607 ext.3907)

In a crisis situation, or if you feel threatened or endangered, call the Fort Belknap Police Department at 406-353-2933 or 911.

More Staff and Faculty Resources

Recognizing Students in Distress

It’s common for college students to experience considerable personal and school-related stress. In an attempt to juggle the demands of college and their personal lives, sometimes students may act out in self-destructive ways and aggressively. Strong feelings of anger, depression and anxiety are common. Sometimes an additional issue or stressor can precipitate a crisis. By […]

Recognizing Distressed Students

Everyone feels stressed, depressed or anxious from time to time. However, some behaviors occurring over a period of time can suggest that the problems with which the student is dealing are beyond his or her ability to cope. The following three levels of behaviors indicate relative severity of distress. Level 1 Although not disruptive to […]

Referring to Morningstar Counseling Services

**In an emergency, call the Fort Belknap Police Department at 406-353-2933 or 911. When in Doubt, Consult If you have specific questions about a student or are unsure about whether or how to approach an individual to make a referral, call Morningstar Counseling at 402-327-9711. Indicate that you are concerned about a student and ask […]

See, Say, Do Something

If you SEE someone in emotional distress or acting in a manner that is inconsistent from your previous experience, trust your instincts to DO SOMETHING. You can SAY SOMETHING if a student leaves you feeling worried, alarmed, or threatened. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) permits communication about a student of concern in […]

Resources for Assisting a Student in Distress

As a Faculty or Staff Member, You Can Help! Your Role: First, staying calm, and being willing to help, knowing whom to call is important in any of these situations. You may choose to approach the student or the student may seek your help with a problem. Below are some suggestions that might help you […]

Best Practices for Working with Distressed Students

Possible Signs of Distress If a Student Tells You of a Sexual Assault Please be aware of any institutional and state requirements regarding mandated reporting. If you are off-campus and experiencing an emergency situation, you can call local police (see below) or by dialing 911.

Tips For Working with Students Remotely

What to do when meeting with a student remotely Many faculty and staff work with students remotely. It is important to remember that if a student wants or needs to see a counselor at Morningstar Counseling, our services are available! Morningstar provides counseling services, in addition to other clinical services (e.g. groups, workshops, talking circles) […]