Characteristics of Emotional and Behavioral Disorders

This course provides an in-depth examination of students with emotional and behavioral difficulties. Attention is given to federal and state regulations, learner characteristics, student identification, and program models. Emphasis is placed on behavioral techniques, classroom management skills, and instructional practices.

*A Masters degree or higher is required for this course*

Topics and Objectives

Philosophical, Historical, and Legal Foundations of Special Education of Students with Emotional and Behavioral Disorders

• Identify the purpose and impact of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) on students with emotional and behavioral disorders
• Examine federal and state definitions for emotional and behavioral disorders.
• Analyze historical roots of emotional and behavioral disorders
• Analyze key legislation in the field of emotional and behavioral disorders
• Summarize the differing perceptions of deviance

Characteristics of Learners

• Analyze the effects of dysfunctional behavior on learning
• Identify the characteristics of student behavior that are most likely to be associated with success in school
• Identify major social, academic, and behavioral characteristics of students with emotional and behavioral disorders
• Compare and contrast the characteristics of students with emotional and behavioral disorders with the characteristics of students with conduct disorders

Assessment, Diagnosis, and Evaluation of Students with Emotional and Behavioral Disorders

• Explain the screening process for children with emotional and behavioral disorders
• Examine systematic screening procedures as they relate to the prereferral process
• Compare and contrast characteristics of valid behavioral rating scales
• Identify appropriate instructional assessment measures
• Analyze functional behavioral assessments
• Summarize the process for determining special education eligibility

Instructional Content and Practice

• Examine research-supported practices for teaching students with emotional and behavioral disorders
• Identify prevention and intervention strategies for use with students with emotional and behavioral disorders
• Develop behavioral intervention plans for students with emotional and behavioral disorders

Planning and Managing the Teaching and Learning Environment

• Identify regular education classroom factors that support or hinder the education of students with emotional and behavioral disorders
• Design a functional classroom that is effective for students with emotional and behavioral disorders
• Examine model programs for students with emotional and behavioral disorders

Managing Student Behavior and Social Interaction Skills

• Apply appropriate management procedures when presented with spontaneous management problems applicable to students with emotional and behavioral disorders
• Compare and contrast effective and non-effective problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills

Communication and Collaborative Partnerships

• Identify effective parent and community education programs
• Summarize the collaborative and/or consultative roles of the special education staff in the inclusion of students with emotional and behavioral disorders
• Analyze the ongoing collaboration for students who are placed in residential treatment centers
• Propose strategies for networking with agencies that provide unique support services

Professionalism and Ethical Practices

• Identify professional organizations relevant to the field of emotional and behavioral disorders
• Analyze current ethical issues in the field of emotional and behavioral disorders