High Incidence Disabilities

Emotional DisturbanceStates interpret definition based on their own

standards.Students have an average intelligence, but

have problems with learning primarily because of external behavioral adjustment problems.Acting outPoor interpretation skillsAnxietyDepression

Emotional DisturbanceA condition exhibiting one or more of the

following characteristics over a long period of time and to a marked degree that adversely affects a child’s educational performance: Inability to learn that cannot be explained by

intellectual, sensory, or health factorsInability to build or maintain satisfactory

interpersonal relationships with peers and teachersInappropriate types of behavior or feelings under

n0rmal circumstancesGeneral pervasive mood, unhappiness, or

depressionTendency to develop physical symptoms, fears

associated with personal or social problems

Emotional Disturbance CausesThere are no direct causes shown by

research.Suggested possible causes:

HeredityBrain disorderDietStressFamily functioning

Defining CharacteristicsBehavioral or emotional responses in school

programs that are so different from appropriate age, cultural, and ethnic norms that adversely affect academic performance.

More than a temporary, expected response to stressful events in environment.

Consistently exhibited in two different settings, at least one which is school related.

Persists despite individualized interventions within the educational program.

Defining CharacteristicsHyperactivity

Short attention span, impulsivenessAggression/Self-injurious behavior

Acting out, fightingWithdrawal

Failure to initiate interaction with others, fear, anxiety

ImmaturityCrying, temper tantrums, poor coping skills

Learning DifficultiesAcademically performing below grade level

The Learning EnvironmentPrimary problem areas in schools:

Academic achievementClassroom behaviorPeer relations

The Learning EnvironmentRoutines need to be predictableConsistently rewarded for appropriate behaviorToken economies, contracting, and time outs

(jobs)Assessment and systematic teaching of social

skills through modeling , discussion, and rehearsal

Supportive therapiesInvolving art, music, exercise, relaxation

techniques

The Learning EnvironmentGet to know your students

Learn historyKnow triggers

Have clear, consistent behavior expectations in classroom

Keep the students mainstreamed unless severe problems

Use positive reinforcementEngage in meaningful academic tasks that

can be completed successfully

Behavior ModificationsThe best way to help emotional problems:

Use reinforcers Consequences that strengthen good behavior

Problem must be definedDesign a way to change a behaviorIdentify an effective reinforcerApply the reinforcer consistently to change and

shape the behaviorBehavior contract

Behavior ModificationsSocial skills training

For interactions with peers and adultsBeing a good listener is a social skill that can

be trainedSelf Control Training

Teaches students to redirect actions by talking to themselves

For students that know what to do in social settings, but lack the self control to act appropriately

Life Space Crisis IdentificationCrisis

Drain their intense emotions by acknowledging their feelingsTimeline

Use affirmative and listening skills to discover their point of view

Central issue Identify their vital interests and select the appropriate

strategyInsight

Use interviewing skills to help student recognize and change behavior

New SkillsTeach new skills for behavior changes

Transfer of trainingPrepare the student to reenter the activity and setting

Conflict ResolutionTake care of safetyClarify personal needs threatened by disputeIdentify safe place for negotiationTake a listening stance to interactionAssert needs clearly and specificallyApproach problem solving with flexibilityManage discussion with calm, patience, and

respectBuild an agreement that works