The 3 D's

What are signs that an individual may be in distress? 

An individual in distress may not be disruptive to others, but may exhibit behaviors indicating that something is wrong, show signs of emotional distress, and indicate that assistance is needed. 

Behaviors may include:

1. A sudden and/or significant change in academic performance/goals.
2. Excessive absences, especially if the individual has previously demonstrated consistent attendance.
3. Unusual or markedly changed patterns of interaction, i.e., avoidance of participation, excessive anxiety when called upon, domination of discussions, etc.
4. Other characteristics that suggest the individual is having trouble managing stress successfully e.g., a depressed, lethargic mood; very rapid speech; swollen, red eyes; marked change in personal dress and hygiene; falling asleep during class/work.
5. Repeated requests for special consideration, such as deadline extensions, especially if the student appears uncomfortable or highly emotional while disclosing the circumstances prompting the request.
6. New or repeated behavior that pushes the limits of decorum and which interferes with effective management of the immediate environment.
7. Unusual or exaggerated emotional responses that are obviously inappropriate to the situation.

How should I respond to an individual who is showing signs of distress? 

For individuals that are showing signs of distress, you can choose to handle the situation in the following ways:

1. Set limits and deal directly with the behavior/problem according to your classroom/work protocol.
2. Address the situation on a more personal level, i.e., identify the problem and refer them to the correct resource.
3. Consult with the Office of Student Life at 608.785.8062.
4. Refer the individual to one of the University Resources.

What are signs of disruptive behavior? 

Disruptive individuals exhibit behaviors that may signify that they are in a crisis situation and may need intervention or support. 

Examples include:

1. Highly disruptive behavior that is verbally and/or physically (e.g. hostility, aggression, violence, etc.)
2. Inability to communicate clearly (garbled, slurred speech; unconnected, disjointed, or rambling thoughts).
3. Loss of contact with reality (seeing or hearing things that others cannot see or hear; beliefs or actions greatly at odds with reality or probability).
4. Inappropriate communications (including threatening letters, e-mail messages, harassment).
5. New or repeated behavior that pushes the limits of decorum and which interferes with effective management of the immediate environment.

How should I respond to a disruptive individual?

1. Remain calm and know who to call for help, if necessary. Find someone to stay with the individual while calls to appropriate resources are made available. 
2. Remember that it is NOT your responsibility to provide the professional help needed for a student in crisis. You need only make the necessary call and request assistance. 
3. When an individual expresses a direct threat to themselves or others, or acts in a bizarre, irrational, or disruptive way, call University Police immediately. 

How should I respond when a student is disrupting my class? 

Faculty members have broad authority to manage their classrooms and establish reasonable guidelines for class discussions that ensure everyone has an opportunity to participate in an orderly manner.

If you believe a student's behavior is disruptive:

• Ask the student to leave
• Speak with the student after class
• Refer them to the Student Life Office
• Call University Police (as appropriate)
• Follow up with Department Chair

When speaking with the student, engage in dialogue about the behaviors you observed and why you took the action you did.