Guidelines for Handling Disruptive and Emotionally Complex Behaviors
Guidelines for Handling
Disruptive and
Emotionally Complex
Behavior
Middlesex County College puts learning first and measures its
success only by the success of its students. All members of the
college community contribute to student succes
s.
June 2003
1
Guidelines for Handling Disruptive and Emotionally Complex Behaviors
Acknowledgements
A Special Thanks to the Committee Members who
Worked Collaboratively to Create these Guidelines:
Leslie Carter
Dr. Trace Gerow
Dr. Christine Harrington, Chair
Karen Katt
Juana Lewis
Sgt. Christine Rutowski
Anne Ugrovics
2
3
Guidelines for Handling Disruptive and Emotionally Complex Behaviors
Middlesex County College
Guidelines for Handling Disruptive and
Emotionally Complex Behavior
Table of Contents
Introduction
4
Quick Reference Guide
5
Disruptive Behaviors
6
Personal/Emotional Concerns
7
Alcohol or Other Drug Problems
9
Suicidal and Homicidal Comments
11
Health Emergencies and Concerns
12
Dangerous Behaviors
14
Middlesex County College’s Department of Police
15
Guidelines for Handling Disruptive and Emotionally Complex Behaviors
4
Middlesex County College
Guidelines for Handling Disruptive and
Emotionally Complex Behaviors
Middlesex County College is an open enrollment institution. Generally, our
students are functional. However, some students have psychological issues that may lead
to behavioral difficulties in and out of the classroom environment. Although some of
these students may be eligible for reasonable accommodations under disability law
(please refer to the faculty guidelines on disability issues), all students must engage in
acceptable behavior on campus, as described in the Code of Student Conduct. It is also
important that the campus community is sensitive to cultural differences, as it is a very
diverse campus. The only basis on which a Code of Student Conduct charge can be made
is on behavior, not a mental health condition or cultural difference. Most students with
mental health conditions do not engage in inappropriate behaviors and are not a threat to
themselves or to others.
Dealing with serious issues such as suicidal comments or dangerous behaviors
can be extremely overwhelming. It is very important that all suicidal or homicidal
comments be taken seriously. Also challenging is dealing with other, perhaps more
common behaviors such as disclosure of very personal issues, alcohol or other drug
involvement, and general disruptive behaviors. The College has an ethical and legal
obligation to adequately address these issues, particularly when safety is an issue. The
MCC community is entitled to a safe working environment that facilitates learning.
Many emergency situations begin with less intense behaviors. If you are in a
position to observe a student’s behavior over time, you may be able to recognize changes
in his/her behavior, mood or physical appearance. Referrals in these situations can
prevent a more intense situation from erupting. Addressing the problematic behaviors as
they occur is most effective. Ignoring or tolerating inappropriate behaviors may lead to
more problematic behaviors that can put you, the student and/or the College community
at risk.
This guide has been developed to aid you in dealing with challenging issues more
effectively. If the campus community is better equipped to handle these difficult
situations, we will be another step closer to our goal of becoming a learning centered
college. Effective responses to these situations can be learning experiences for all
involved and can lead to a more learning focused atmosphere. Since each situation is
unique, it is difficult, if not impossible to provide you with specific information about
what will work most effectively in the situation you may encounter. Each situation needs
to be assessed on an individual or case by case basis and you are always welcome to
consult with campus resources such as Counselors in the Department of Counseling and
Career Services, the Assistant Dean of Enrollment and Student Support Services , and the
Police Department before, during, and after difficult situations.
Guidelines for Handling Disruptive and Emotionally Complex Behaviors
Quick Reference Guide for Handling Disruptive and Emotionally
Complex Behaviors
Middlesex County College
Scenarios
Contact
Guidelines
Dangerous behaviors (i.e.
using or threatening to use
weapon)
Police Department
Suicidal comment or
homicidal comment
Police Department
Department of Counseling and
Career Services
Health emergency
911
Police Department
Health Office
Alcohol or other drug
problem with disruptive
behavior
Police Department
Department of Counseling and
Career Services
Assistant Dean of Enrollment
and Student Support Services
Alcohol or other drug
problem (not engaging in
disruptive behavior)
Disruptive behavior (nonthreatening)
Personal or emotional
concerns
Police Department
Department of Counseling and
Career Services
Health Office
Police Department
Director of Student Activities
Assistant Dean of Enrollment
and Student Support Services
Police Department
Department of Counseling and
Career Services
Police Department
Department of Counseling and Career Services
Health and Safety Office
Assistant Dean of Enrollment and Student Support Services
Director of Student Activities
Protect yourself and
others, may need to leave
the area
Wait for Police
File a Code of Student
Conduct charge
Express concern and
explain this is outside of
your expertise
Gather information
Stay with the individual
until Counselor or Police
are available
Stay calm
Stay with the individual
until help arrives
If possible, obtain contact
information
Set boundaries and state
what is appropriate
behavior
Wait for Police if
necessary
Refer to Counseling and
Career Services
Consult with Counselor
Express concern in
behavioral terms
Outline possible
consequences, particularly
academic
Refer to Counseling and
Career Services
Clearly and behaviorally
set boundaries
File a Code of Student
Conduct charge
Consult with Counselor
Actively listen
Express concern
Set boundaries
Refer to Counseling and
Career Services
ext. 3500 or 732.906.2500
ext. 2546 or 732.906.2546
ext. 2530 or 732.906.2530
ext. 2544 or 732.906.2544
ext. 3450 or 732.906.2569
5
Guidelines for Handling Disruptive and Emotionally Complex Behaviors
6
Middlesex County College
Disruptive Behaviors
Definition:
Disruptive behaviors persistently interfere with learning. Examples include:
abusive verbal statements
physical gestures
chronic lateness
cell phones ringing
talking excessively in class
frequently leaving the classroom
Action Steps:
If a student engages in a dangerous, threatening, or disruptive behavior, follow the
guidelines for dangerous behaviors. In the case of disruptive, non-threatening behaviors,
remember the following:
It is helpful to set clear expectations verbally and in writing at the beginning of the
semester.
Minor disruptive behaviors can often be dealt with on an informal basis.
When a norm is violated, firmly inform the student that the behavior is not
acceptable. Likewise, advise the student of the consequences of continuing to engage
in the behavior. You may reference the Code of Student Conduct.
You can always consult with the Assistant Dean of Enrollment and Student Support
Services at 732.906.2544 regarding ways to address the behavior and to discuss
placing a Code of Student Conduct charge.
Code of Student Conduct Charge:
The Code of Student Conduct can be found in the College catalog and the Pathfinder.
Written documentation must be submitted by faculty or other staff who is initiating the
charge. The documentation should adhere to the following standards:
Include facts. Do not editorialize or diagnose.
Provide information that specifies the infraction, the context in which it occurred, the
stated behavioral norms that were violated, and the dates, times, location, and parties
involved.
Provide a description of what remedies were attempted to resolve the problem.
State the desired outcome, understanding that a review of the case may lead to other
options.
For additional information, please refer to the Code of Student Conduct or contact the
Director of Student Activities at 732.906.2569 or the Assistant Dean of Enrollment and
Student Support Services at 732.906.7713.
Guidelines for Handling Disruptive and Emotionally Complex Behaviors
7
Middlesex County College
Personal/Emotional Concerns
It is fairly common for students to speak with faculty members about personal issues or
concerns. Faculty members are often the ones to whom students feel most connected.
Because of the frequent contact between teacher and student, faculty members are in a
position to notice changes in mood or behavior that can be characteristic of depression or
other mental health issues. The relationships faculty members develop with students can
prove useful when it is necessary to refer a student to counseling. Many students may
never seek the help they need if it were not for faculty concern.
Definition:
Students often face many difficult personal or emotional issues while they are pursuing
their education. Such issues include depression, anxiety, and relationship difficulties.
Some students are very open about personal issues, while others are not. Some may not
even be aware that they are suffering from depression or another disorder. The following
is a list of behaviors or symptoms that may suggest help is needed:
Change in behavior or mood
Depressed mood
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
Withdrawal from friends
Difficulty with concentration and/or decision making
Fatigue or loss of energy
Feelings of worthlessness/ Low self-esteem
Poor grades and no longer caring about academic performance
Feelings of hopelessness
Weight loss or gain
Psychomotor agitation or retardation (increased or decreased motor activity)
Thoughts of death/suicide
Excessive worry
Restlessness
Irritability
Tension
Sleep difficulties
Action Steps:
Consider your comfort level with students presenting personal concerns. If you are
uncomfortable, be sure to let students know early on in a discussion that you prefer to
keep conversations related to academics, but that there is counseling support available
on campus. You can then assist them in accessing these services. This dialogue is
also relevant for voice mail and e-mail, defining appropriate uses of these
communications for students.
Guidelines for Handling Disruptive and Emotionally Complex Behaviors
8
In many cases, being an effective listener is what will be most helpful to the student
(if you are comfortable with this role). Here are some tips:
Eliminate distractions or barriers to listening.
Maintain eye contact.
Acknowledge the speaker (i.e. nod your head, say “yes”).
Display open body language (i.e. face the person, uncross arms).
Paraphrase what the person is stating rather than immediately responding to it.
Referral:
In some cases, it will be important to refer the student to counseling. Here are some
scenarios in which referral would be important:
Serious symptoms such as suicidal thoughts or hallucinations.
Significant changes in mood, behavior, or grades.
Person is coming to you with personal concerns on a regular basis.
You are not comfortable handling the information the student is sharing with you.
You are finding it awkward being in a “listener” and “teacher/evaluator” role
simultaneously.
You observe the student sharing very personal concerns with individuals they do not
know very well. Some students have significant difficulty with boundaries and need
guidance regarding with whom it is appropriate to discuss personal concerns.
Consult with a Counselor in the Department of Counseling and Career Services
(732.906.2546) to discuss the best way to successfully refer the student you are
concerned about. Generally, it is effective to:
Express your concern to the student and your desire to be helpful.
Next, state your limitations (i.e. “I am very concerned because ……and I would love
to be able to help, but I am not the best person to help since I am not trained to
handle these issues”).
Ask the student if they are currently in counseling or have been in counseling in the
past. If the student is currently involved with a Counselor off campus and there is no
immediate danger, encourage the student to discuss the issues with their Counselor.
If the student is not in counseling, suggest s/he get connected to a Counselor on
campus. If willing, together you can call the Department of Counseling and Career
Services at 732.906.2546 to schedule an appointment or you can walk the student to
ED 100. If you believe the student needs to be seen immediately, please inform the
front desk staff. Counselors can also come to your office or speak to the student by
telephone.
Middlesex County College
Guidelines for Handling Disruptive and Emotionally Complex Behaviors
9
Alcohol or Other Drug Problem
Use of alcohol and other drugs is highest during college years. Although Middlesex
County College is a commuter institution and has a zero tolerance alcohol or other drug
policy (as outlined in the Code of Student Conduct), it is not free of students who
struggle with substance abuse issues.
Definition:
It is not always easy to identify a substance abuse problem. . Additionally, it is common
for students to deny or minimize the problem. Some behaviors associated with substance
abuse include:
sudden or gradual change in classroom behavior
missing class
coming late to class
sleeping in class
change in physical appearance
change in grades or academic performance
decreased attention and concentration
increased forgetfulness
decreased problem solving skills
offensive behavior/interference with the rights of other students
fighting/physical aggression
changes in mood or personality
Alcohol and some other types of drugs (i.e., crack cocaine, methamphetamine,
cocaine) can lower inhibitions and stimulate the heart.
A student may display a higher level of energy, restlessness, and aggression.
He/she may be loud and unable to monitor or adjust his/her behavior to fit the
circumstance or environment.
The student may misinterpret the slightest interaction to be one of provocation and
respond aggressively.
Some other types of drugs (i.e., marijuana, heroin, OxyContin, ghb) can have a
sedating effect.
The student may display signs of drowsiness, confusion, dizziness and an inability to
remain focused.
The student may also fall asleep, nod, lose control of limbs, slouch in the desk, go
through periods of sleeping and attempting to stay awake, or behave
uncharacteristically.
Action Steps:
Guidelines for Handling Disruptive and Emotionally Complex Behaviors
10
If you suspect a substance abuse problem, contact the Department of Counseling and
Career Services Department at 732.906.2546 for consultation and/or referral.
Counselors will be able to assist you in assessing the problematic behaviors, and will
work collaboratively with you to develop a plan that best suits the needs of your
classroom and the student.
Suspicion of Substance Abuse: Health and Safety of Student at Risk
Contact the Police Department via red phone or by calling 732.906.2500 and/or the
Health & Safety Department at 732.906.2530 for immediate assistance.
Stay with the person until help arrives.
Suspicion of Substance Abuse: Boisterous and Confrontational Behavior
If the student displays boisterous or confrontational behavior and is unapproachable,
contact the Police Department at 732.906.2500 for assistance.
Suspicion of Substance Abuse: Non-Confrontational Behavior
If the student is approachable, ask to speak with him/her outside of your classroom.
Firmly inform the student that the behavior is unacceptable and that you are
concerned about him or her.
Let the student know that you would like to help and a good way to help is to connect
the student immediately with a Counselor.
If the student is unwilling to be connected with a Counselor, emphasize the potential
academic jeopardy, and re-emphasize the observed behavior and its impact on the
class.
If the student continues to be unwilling to see a Counselor and you believe the person
needs to be seen, your only option may be to contact the Police Department at
732.906.2500.
Suspicion of Substance Abuse Problem: Not Currently Under the Influence
Schedule a time for a private discussion with the student.
Inform the student that you are concerned and will support any effort to find a
solution to the alcohol or other drug problem.
Describe the behavior and the ancillary facts that give rise to your concern.
Let the student know what your expectations are, what you would like to see happen,
and the possible academic consequences if the problem is left unattended.
Keep in mind that the goal is to connect the student with the Department of
Counseling and Career Services (732.906.2546).
Middlesex County College
Guidelines for Handling Disruptive and Emotionally Complex Behaviors
11
Suicidal and Homicidal Comments
Definition:
Although some individuals will make a suicidal or homicidal comment in a direct way
such as stating “I am going to kill myself/someone else,” many use more subtle language.
For example, a student may say:
“I wish I were dead”
“It won’t matter anymore”
“Everyone will be better off without me”
“Life isn’t worth living anymore”
“I just want to end it all”
“Don’t worry about it- he won’t be around for long.”
All of these comments should be considered serious, and the actions described below
should be taken.
Action Steps:
If a person makes a suicidal or homicidal comment, a professional needs to assess that
person immediately.
If comfortable, you can ask the person if he or she has thoughts of hurting self or others,
if there is a plan to act on these thoughts, and if the person has a history of suicidal or
homicidal thoughts or actions.
If the comment is made during a time when the Department of Counseling and Career
Services is open, immediately call 732.906.2546 and a Counselor will more fully
assess the situation. Communicate to the student that it is beyond your scope of
abilities to handle this important situation alone, and that a Counselor will be better
able to help you. If possible, walk the student over to the office (Edison Hall Room
100).
If the comment is made during a time when the Department of Counseling and
Career Services is not open, immediately contact the Police Department (ext. 3500
or 732.906.2500). A police officer will assist you in determining if the person needs
to be psychiatrically screened, and the officer has the ability to transport the person if
necessary.
Middlesex County College
Health Emergencies and Concerns
Guidelines for Handling Disruptive and Emotionally Complex Behaviors
12
The Health & Safety Department is located in South II Suite 109. The telephone number
is 732.906.2530. Hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. In the Fall
Semester, evening hours until 8 p.m. are available on Mondays and Thursdays. In the
Spring Semester, evening hours until 8 p.m. are available on Mondays. After hours,
please contact the Police Department at 732.906.2500.
Health Emergencies Defined:
Typically, it is apparent when a person needs immediate medical attention. Examples of
physical symptoms that require immediate attention include:
pain down the left arm
pain in the left jaw
crushing feeling in the chest or other chest pain
cool and sweaty skin
nose bleed or other noticeable bleeding
choking
difficulty breathing
seizures
severe pain
fainting
Action Steps:
Stay calm.
Remain with the student.
Have someone call 911 and the Health & Safety office at 732.906.2530. The emergency
red phones on campus may also be used. Tell the dispatcher that medical attention is
needed.
If possible, obtain the student’s name, telephone number, and if the person has a medical
condition.
Seizure
If one of your students has a seizure, remain calm.
Have someone call the Health & Safety Department at 732.906.2530.
Gently ease the student to the floor.
Do not try to restrain or revive the student.
Clear the area of people and hard, sharp or hot objects.
Do not force anything between their teeth or attempt to hold their tongue. The
tongue is attached to the floor of the mouth and cannot be swallowed.
Turn the student on their side and make sure their breathing is not obstructed. Loosen
ties, and open collars.
Remain with the student until help arrives.
Cardiac Symptoms
Immediately contact 911 and the Health & Safety Department at 732.906.2530.
Keep the individual sitting up.
Open or remove constricting clothing.
Guidelines for Handling Disruptive and Emotionally Complex Behaviors
13
Keep the person engaged with you through conversation and eye contact. The more
alert you can keep the person until help arrives, the better.
Health Concerns Defined:
Many college students practice poor health habits. Stress can also result in physical
symptoms. Health concerns include a wide array of symptoms such as:
colds
flu
gastro-intestinal disruptions
sexual concerns
delayed or missed menstrual cycles
poor hygiene
frequent upper respiratory infections
frequent headaches
sinus infections
frequent minor accidents
chronic conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure
Action Steps:
Contact the Health & Safety Department at 732.906.2530 if you think a student may
be struggling with a health issue, even if you are not sure what the condition might be
or what kind of help the student needs.
Middlesex County College
Dangerous Behaviors
Guidelines for Handling Disruptive and Emotionally Complex Behaviors
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Definition:
Dangerous behaviors can be defined as acting or threatening to act in a dangerous and/or
life threatening way. Examples include:
A person with a weapon or other object that he/she is either using or threatening to
use in a dangerous way
A person who is extremely physically agitated (i.e., banging fists, holding fist in air,
throwing things, physically approaching someone)
A person who is verbally threatening to hurt self or others without the presence of a
weapon.
Action Steps:
If the person is demonstrating behaviors that are immediately dangerous, you need to
contact the Police Department immediately (ext. 3500 or 732.906.2500).
Safety should always come first. Do what you can to protect yourself and others. This
may involve leaving an area or positioning yourself in a way that you can easily leave
if necessary.
Do not intervene physically.
Verbal interventions may either escalate or de-escalate the situation. If you opt to engage
in verbal interventions, watch the intensity closely and if you observe increased
agitation, do not engage in further dialogue.
15
Guidelines for Handling Disruptive and Emotionally Complex Behaviors
Robert F. Smilek
ActingChiefof Police
Tele: 732
Fax: 732
-906-2500
-321-0240
DEPARTMENT OF POLICE
Middlesex County College’s Department of Police
The College’s Police Department is a duly
-sworn law en forcement agency whose officers are empowered to
enforce and act upon New Jersey statutes. The primary mission of the College Police Department is to protect
the College community and to ensure that individual freedoms are protected. The Police Departmen
t works
closely with allother departments on the campus as wellas off campus resources and organizations. You are
always welcome to consult with the Police Department.
MCC’s Police Department is located in the Gateway building near the main entrance.
To call from on campus,
dial extension 3500. To call from off campus, dial (732) 906
-2500. The Police Department is open 24 hours a
day, 7 days a week, including holidays. Throughout the campus, there are emergency phones which provide
direct access to the MCC Police Department. These red emergency phones are located in the major classroom
buildings. In addition, outside emergency phones are located in front of West Hall, the Johnson Learning
Center, near Main Hall, and in Parking Lots 4, 5, 6 and 6
a.
Additionally, in an emergency situation, you can dial911 from any phone located on the campus. When dialing
911, you will immediately be connected with a certified 911 dispatcher located in Edison Police Department’s
communications center. At the sa
me time, MCC Police department’s dispatch center is alerted of the call being
made and the location of that call. Be advised, the MCC Police dispatcher can not hear the phone conversation
between the 911 operator and the caller at the time of the call.
When the call is completed, the 911 operator
then telephones MCC Police to inform them of the problem or, if necessary, willconnect the caller to the MCC
Police dispatcher directly. If the emergency necessitates a Fire Truck or Ambulance response, the 91
1 operator
willdispatch them immediately while the caller is stillon the line. A MCC Police Officer is sent to the location
of the call. Even if 911 is dialed in error, an officer will stillrespond to check on the welfare of the caller.
The College Police Department has responded to an assortment of concerns from minor issues to major
incidents. Some of those include but are not limited to: unlocking doors, escorting a community member to his
or her vehicle, giving class presentations concerning va
rious topics (i.e., seat belt safety, what a police officer
does, drinking & driving), assisting faculty with disruptive students, providing first aid, responding to physical
and verbalaltercations, investigating criminal activity on the campus, and respo
nding to motor vehicle accidents
on the campus. The officers are trained and dedicated to assisting the college community in the best possible
means dependant upon each situation. Police involvement is not synonymous with criminal consequences.
“To Protect and Serve”
2600 Woodbridge Avenue
P.O. Box 3050 Edison, NJ 08818
www.middlesexcc.edu
- 3050
Guidelines for Handling Disruptive and Emotionally Complex Behaviors
16
Quick Reference Guide for Handling Disruptive and Emotionally Complex Behaviors
Scenarios
Contact
Guidelines
Dangerous behaviors
(i.e. using or threatening to use weapon)

Police Department (732-906-2500 or 911)

Suicidal comment or homicidal comment


Police Department (732-906-2500 or 911)
Department of Counseling and Career Services
(732-906-2546)

Health emergency



911
Police Department (732-906-2500 or 911)
Health Office
(732-906-2530)



Alcohol or other drug problem with
disruptive behavior



Police Department (732-906-2500 or 911)
Department of Counseling and Career Services
Assistant Dean of Enrollment and Student Support
Services
(732-906-2544)

Alcohol or other drug problem
(not engaging in disruptive behavior)


Police Department (732-906-2500 or 911)
Department of Counseling and Career Services
(732-906-2546)
 Health Office
(732-906-2530)



Disruptive behavior
(non-threatening)


Police Department (732-906-2500 or 911)
Director of Student Activities (Code of
Student Conduct) (732-906-2569)
 Assistant Dean of Enrollment & Student
Support Services
(732-906-2544)


Clearly and behaviorally set boundaries
File a Code of Student Conduct charge
Personal or emotional concerns







Consult with Counselor
Actively listen
Express concern
Set boundaries
Refer to Counseling and Career Services
Police Department (732-906-2500 or 911)
Department of Counseling and Career Services
(732-906-2546)
Protect yourself and others, may need to leave
the area
 Wait for Police
 File a Code of Student Conduct charge
Express concern and explain this is outside of
your expertise
 Gather information
 Stay with the individual until Counselor or
Police are available
Stay calm
Stay with the individual until help arrives
If possible, obtain contact information
Set boundaries and state what is appropriate
behavior
 Wait for Police if necessary
 Refer to Counseling and Career Services
Consult with Counselor
Express concern in behavioral terms
Outline possible consequences, particularly
academic
 Refer to Counseling & Career Services