Defiant Behavior by David Sowell, Behavior Specialist
It's not uncommon for students to occasionally challenge authority by arguing, disobeying, or talking back. Some students may even exhibit more aggressive and impulsive behavior, struggling to control their emotions and often becoming easily frustrated and angry. These defiant students tend to engage in negative and confrontational interactions with both teachers and peers.
We've all encountered students like this in our teaching careers, and we know the disruptive impact they can have on the classroom environment, their fellow students, and ourselves. Dealing with a student displaying defiant behavior can be both frustrating and exhausting. However, there are effective strategies for improving the situation, and a key aspect is understanding the root causes of the behavior and being prepared to address it.
In order to address these behaviors on a daily basis, teachers should be well-prepared. It's important to respond to a student's defiance in a constructive manner rather than reacting emotionally. This approach can help prevent situations from escalating further between the teacher and the student.
Below are steps to reduce student’s defiant behaviors and improve your classroom environment.
Daily Routines
All children respond well to routines
Clarify Expectations
Have clear and consistent expectations and ensure they are understood by your students. State behaviors you expect to see, not the negative behaviors you don’t.
Catch Them Being Good
Shape your student’s behavior with praise. Label positive behaviors.
Be Patient and Understanding
Sometimes tasks that seem simple to us are extremely difficult for students. Reward hard work, effort, and progress, rather than focusing solely on the outcome.
Offer Acceptable Choices
Offering choices allows students a little control over situations and help to encourage compliance.
Delay Your Response
In moments of frustration, it can be easy to say something we will regret. Think before you speak.
Self-Care
If you're teaching a student with defiant behaviors and you neglect self-care, it can lead to exhaustion and increased stress. When you're in this state, you're more prone to responding negatively to the student, potentially worsening the situation. Maintaining your own well-being puts you in a better position to provide effective support to your students..
Communicate With Your Behavior Specialist
If behaviors are becoming problematic, be sure to speak with your specialist.
Air-Fryer Cooking Class - Friday, November 10th at 6:30PM DSPNT Offices
Join us for a Thanksgiving-themed air-fryer cooking class. Participants will prepare and eat a meal during class. Cost covers supplies, instruction, and meal. You must be 16 and older to attend and registration is non-refundable. Space is limited and will take place at our new office location at 1000 Bonnie Brae Avenue.
Click HERE to RSVP: https://www.classy.org/event/2023-teen-sa-programs/e445021/register/new/select-tickets
