Teacher Perspectives on Behaviors of Middle and Junior High School Students At Risk for Emotional and Behavioral Disorders

Many schools emphasize early identification and interventions for students with behavior problems or for those at risk for behavioral disorders. This research used focus groups of middle and junior high school teachers to identify the student behaviors that teachers believed characterized students who were at risk for emotional and behavioral disorders. Teachers indicated that they expected at-risk students' behaviors to include: a) difficulty maintaining peer and teacher relationships, b) difficulty with hygiene and sleep, c) challenging home and school relationships, and d) noncompliance with teacher directions. Findings suggest that when secondary school teachers and administrators are aware of these factors, they can better screen students and arrange for appropriate follow-up assessment and interventions.