How to Positively Influence a Chronically Disruptive Student
Teaching can be wonderful and rewarding profession, yet at times entire lessons can be ruined when some students choose to interrupt class with their misbehavior. Students who are chronically disruptive often are not apologetic and make little effort to correct their behavior; furthermore, some of these types of students thrive on conflict and enjoy being sent to the office. Traditional methods of handling these types of students, like putting them in the hall, sending them to the principal's office, or calling home every day, often backfire since they want to be out of the classroom instead of learning. The following suggestions will help you to guide the chronically disruptive student to more positive behavior without losing control.
Instructions
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Be friendly. Many chronically disruptive students come to school with a grudge against people in general, so being friendly in small ways can produce some big results. Smile, say hi, or ask how their day is going. At first you might get shrugged shoulders or soundless nods, but continue to show interest in their lives, and you may be able to break through the tough exterior and begin to build a bridge of trust and mutual respect.
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Be firm when necessary. Sometimes, chronically disruptive students are hardened to yelling and nagging, so what is necessary in handling their outbursts or rude display of behavior is a firm, adult-sounding voice. This voice is different from the parent-sounding voice, which often comes across as belittling, condescending, or whiny. Use a matter-of-fact tone, and remind these students that the school and your classroom may have different expectations than home.
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Enforce boundaries consistently. Enforcing boundaries doesn't have to be mean and ugly; just be consistent. You have your rules in place for a reason, so when you are giving consequences, use those times as an opportunity to remind students of the logical reasons behind your rules. Eventually, your chronically disruptive students will learn that they are held to a high standard because you care about them and want them to succeed.
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