Handling Disruptive Students

Disruptive behavior is any behavior that interferes with someone’s access to an appropriate educational or work environment.

Examples include (but are not limited to):

• Making loud or distracting noises
• Repeatedly leaving and entering the room
• Making hostile remarks or threats
• Monopolizing classroom time

When a student is disruptive:

• If the behavior is threatening the safety of your classroom, call 911 or the UC Police Department at (951) 827-5222 (2-5222 from campus phones) immediately.
• Get help. Contact us when you don’t know what to do, or contact Case Management. 
• Remain calm. Don't become hostile or escalate the situation.
• Try to correct the behavior courteously and professionally.
• You may want to meet with the student after class. You can request the presence of an ombudsperson.
• Try to be respectful and compassionate. Sometimes students don’t know their behavior is bothersome.
• Document everything. Keep an interaction log, emails, etc.
• Report misconduct to us. 

Help prevent disruptive behavior. Be clear about your expectations and consequences. Consider adding a behavior statement to your syllabus and make your policies easy for students to access.

Helping Distressed Students

Sometimes disruptive behavior is a sign that a student needs help.

Watch out for:

• Bizarre and/or irrational behavior
• A drastic change in behavior
• A drastic change in appearance (hygiene, weight loss/gain, etc.)
•  A depressed and/or lethargic mood
• Hyperactivity and/or rapid speech
• References to suicide or homicide

When a student is distressed:

• See Something: Sometimes UCR employees see a student more than their friends or family. You may be the first person to notice something is wrong.
• Say Something: Trust your instincts. Speak up if a student leaves you feeling worried, alarmed, or threatened.
• Do Something: Your expression of concern may be a critical factor in saving a student’s life.
• Use the Red Folder to learn more symptoms of student distress, proper response protocol, and appropriate referrals to campus resources.
• See Counseling & Psychological Services' advice for responding to distressed students.