Disruptive or Distressed Students

DISRUPTIVE STUDENT

A student whose conduct is clearly and imminently reckless, disorderly, dangerous, or threatening, including self-harmful behavior.

 

TO GET HELP

If you are concerned for your own or others safety due to a student’s disruptive and/or threatening behavior, call 911 or the Campus Police Department (415) 338-7200

 

REPORT INCIDENT TO

Campus Police Department: (415) 338-7200

 

DISTRESSED STUDENT

A student with persistent behaviors such as

  • Overly anxious
  • Sad
  • Irritable
  • Withdrawn
  • Confused
  • Lacks motivation and/or concentration
  • Seeks constant attention
  • Demonstrates bizarre or erratic behavior
  • Expresses suicidal thoughts

 

IF A STUDENT IS CAUSING A DISRUPTION BUT DOES NOT POSE A THREAT

  • Ensure your safety in the environment.
  • Use a calm, non-confrontational approach to defuse/de-escalate the situation.
  • Set limits by explaining how the behavior persists, notify the student that disciplinary action may be taken. Ask the student to leave. Inform him or her that refusal to leave may be a separate violation subject to discipline.
  • Immediately report the incident to the appropriate resource.

If you believe there is a safety risk, contact the Campus Police Department: (415) 338-7200

 

RESOURCES & TIPS

BE PROACTIVE:

Engage students early on, pay attention to signs of distress, and set limits on disruptive behavior

BE DIRECT:

Don’t be afraid to ask students directly if they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, feeling confused, or having thoughts of harming themselves or others.

LISTEN SENSITIVELY AND CAREFULLY:

Use a non-confrontational approach and a calm voice. Avoid threatening, humiliating, and intimidating responses.

SAFETY FIRST:

The welfare of the campus community is the top priority when a student displays threatening or potentially violent behavior. Do not hesitate to call for help.

FOLLOW THROUGH:

Direct the student to the physical location of the identified resource.

CONSULTATION AND DOCUMENTATION:

Always document your interactions with distressed students and consult with your department chair/supervisor after any incident.