When responding to a student who may be exhibiting concerning behavior, it's important to follow a few key steps. Start by consulting with your department chair, dean, or an appropriate campus resource to carefully consider your approach. Next, reach out to the Dean of Students to share your concerns and receive guidance on how to address the issue with the student during your meeting. Whenever possible, involve another person in the situation—this ensures the student is not left alone and that you are not alone with the student.
Meet in a quiet but safe place (both for you and the students). Listen attentively and respond in a straightforward and considerate way. State specifically what behaviors you have observed and why you are concerned about the student.
Outline your goals and (if appropriate) ask the student to outline his/her goals for the meeting. Work to understand what is causing distress for the student. Acknowledge his/her feelings and let the student know you want to help him/her resolve the problem. Be non-judgmental and caring.
Listen carefully. Paraphrase what the student is telling you, so you can be sure you understand the situation. Avoid aggressive or dominating body language and keep your voice slow and calm to try and keep the student relaxed.
Talk about the situation as a problem that you will work together to solve, suggesting assignment and/or class options that will help the student. Encourage the student to seek support and assistance from family, friends and others as appropriate, and perhaps to contact the Counseling Services Center (be sure to give the student the information to do so).
Help set up initial meetings for the student with the Counseling Services Center. When contacting a campus resource, have available as much information as possible, including your name; the student’s name and location; a description of the circumstances and the type of assistance needed; and an anticipated arrival time.
Follow-up
After discussing the problem with the student, you might need to pursue further action if the behaviors of concern persist. Contact the Dean of Students Office and/or file a Behavioral Intervention Team Referral Form
If the situation seems more hostile (i.e., you are concerned about the student’s or your own immediate safety), contact the COD Police Department, (630) 942-2000.
Contact Information
Behavioral Intervention Team
(630) 942-2485
deanofstudents@cod.edu
College of DuPage Counseling Services
(630) 942-3330
College of DuPage Police Department
(630) 942-2000
Center for Access and Accommodations
(630) 942-2154
access@cod.edu
24-hour DuPage County Crisis Line: (630) 627-1700