Disruptive Student Behavior in the Classroom

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 tips: use a preventive approach; establish fair limits; set a positive example; restore order when a problem occurs; avoid delegating classroom management problems to others whenever possible; locate the real problem; change the classroom environment when necessary; provide alternatives to undesirable behavior; help students understand the consequences of their behavior; make provisions for a time out; help students modify their behavior; use group counseling procedures to promote positive behavior; avoid reinforcing negative behavior; invite students to succeed in the classroom; and know how to deal with pathological behavior. Five teacher behaviors--modeling, designing, interacting, responding, and assessing--are discussed as ways of introducing students to a way of life in the classroom. Concluding discussion concerns the influence of leadership style on student behavior, the relations between curriculum and student behavior problems, and student behavior problems and the community. Nearly 120 references are cited. (RH)