Meeting with Difficult Students

Difficult Student Meetings

Who we are and who we’re not

• Jack Hobson, Loyola Marymount University

• Denise Kinsella, Santa Monica College

• Ryan Larsen, University of Nevada, Las Vegas

• We’re not psychologists or therapists; rather, we’re international educators who have been in the trenches.

Learning Outcomes

Identify difficult students

Prepare yourself

Set expectations

Meet and de-escalate difficult

interactions.

Case studies.

Difficult Behaviors

• Arrogant • Ramblers • Silent • Inappropriate • Violent • Blamer • Can’t be wrong • Mistrustful • Martyr • Cognitive

disability

• Hostile • Defensive • Mean • Aggressive • Puts down others • Shouts • Bullies • Spoiled • Cynical • Won’t listen

Preparing Yourself

Eleanor Roosevelt said that “No one can make us feel inferior without our consent.”

Self Care

Compliment Apologize

Support Be Nimble Be Creative Stay Grounded Stay on Their Side

Setting Expectations

Empower Parents to Engage Appropriately

The Meeting/De-escalation

Notify Staff

Safe Word

Bags Outside

Open Doors

Arrange Backup

Affirmation

Calm Environment

Review Notes

Listen

Validate

Hold the

Space

Ask

Affirm

Reflect

Review Policies

Define Limits

Offer Creative Solutions

Insist on Respectful Behavior

Reschedule Meeting

Document

Prepare

Get Help

End Meeting

Enforce Consequences