What do I do with an angry student?

-Information courtesy of Steve Vaupel of the ISRC, Anger Management Training

1.  The student appears frustrated:
    a.  try redirecting the student
    b.  repeat previously stated directions
    c.  mention that you notice her/his frustration and discuss it
    d.  empathize or sympathize with the student verbally
    e.  consider alternatives (take a break, etc.)

            "I can see you are frustrated, let's take a break."

2.    The student begins to be defiant:
    a.  calm yourself, speak in a calm voice
    b.  depersonalize the situation (the student is trying to get you angry)
    c.  slowly back away from the student
    d.  attempt to decide what the student is really seeking (i.e., attention, escape, etc.)
    e.  think of another way for the student to get what she/he wants
    f.  mention the defiance
    g.  give the student three choices (i.e., clam down, walk in the hallway outside the door, go to the office)

            "You are arguing with me.  You have three choices, you can...."

3.    The student begins to speak loudly (shout):
    a.  continue to calm yourself
    b.  speak in a calm voice
    c.  depersonalize the situation
    d.  continue to slowly back away from the student
    e.  mention the students turmoil

            "I see this really frustrates you, we will discuss it at...."

4.   The student changes body position to possibly become aggressive:
    a.  call for backup or evacuate the room
    b.  do not block the student from an escape
    c.  stand away from the student
    d.  continue to use a calm voice
    e.  continue to depersonalize the situation
    f.  remind the student of her/his choices until help arrives

            "I can see you are very angry.  What do you think you should do?"

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