The Light Center, College of the Redwoods

All of us have at one time or another dealt with someone who is angry or disruptive. Those of us who work on campus frequently deal with others who, for a variety of reasons, become angry. This situation occurs more frequently during times of high stress: exams, deadlines, and personal crisis. Angry or unpredictable behavior can be exacerbated when the student or colleague has a disability. For example, someone with a head injury may have difficulty controlling anger as well as impulsivity in class. A person who has stopped taking his/her medication despite doctor’s orders may be unpredictable or disruptive. Students with psychological disabilities can also appear threatening and disruptive. Moreover, they may not be able to accurately "read" the listener’s responses to their behavior. It is our job as professionals to try to defuse an angry situation as quickly and effectively as possible. Unfortunately, most of us are not trained to deal with these situations and are not particularly knowledgeable about the nature of anger-related problems.

As you know, DSP&S is making an effort to address some of these issues when they are related to students with disabilities. This is not unique to CR, rather a pervasive trend across Community Colleges in California. We are fortunate here to have a clearly defined Student Code of Conduct, as well as a disciplinary process which has proved to be successful. This is not the case on all campuses.

It is difficult to know how best to address these types of issues. However, two guidelines are important to keep in mind. First, it is recommended that you develop response plans with your department. This also prepares you should an incident arise, rather than forcing you to deal with an unwelcome surprise. Secondly, it is important to know some strategies which may help defuse the situation and keep everybody safe should a problem arise.

You all recently received an e-mail outlining the behaviors which are considered disruptive based on the current CR Code of Conduct. These include but are not limited to:

• Verbal abuse
• Physical abuse or threats
• Willful damage to personal or college property
• Use of drugs and/or alcohol on campus
• Inordinate demands for time and attention
• Harassment
• Cheating or plagiarism
• Furnishing false information to the college
• Disruption of classroom, office or campus activity

Comments? mailto:trish-blair@redwoods.edu

November 1, 1999

Should you find yourself in a situation with an angry student or co-worker, consider these suggestions:

• Try to not let the person stand between you and an exit.

• Don’t make promises you can’t keep.

• Evaluate your response options quickly and then select one of your prearranged action plans.

• Always keep yourself and others in the area safe: remove other students and visitors from the area and don’t hesitate to contact campus security. If you have a speed dial feature on your phone, consider programming in their number. (x4111)

• Present a calm, serious appearance.

• Talk in a non-judgmental manner (don’t shame, blame or patronize).

• Speak softly.

• Put physical space between you and the other person. You may want to have a piece of furniture, such as a desk between the two of you.

• Try to have someone else with you for support and help, or have a way to signal co-workers that you need assistance.

• Encourage the person to talk to you and explain the situation from her/his perspective.

Energy creates energy. It is by spending oneself that one becomes rich.
Bernhardt, Sarah