# Understanding and Supporting Students With Emotional and Behavioral Disorders

by Vern Jones, Ph.D.  
Lewis & Clark College

and Al William Greenwood, Ph.D.

---

## Contents

1. [About the Online Materials](#about-the-online-materials)
2. [About the Authors](#about-the-authors)
3. [Preface](#preface)
4. [Chapter 1 Key Concepts and Assumptions Related to Effective Support for Students With Emotional and Behavioral Disorders](#chapter-1-key-concepts-and-assumptions-related-to-effective-support-for-students-with-emotional-and-behavioral-disorders)
5. [Chapter 2 Developing a Foundational Understanding of Emotional and Behavioral Disorders](#chapter-2-developing-a-foundational-understanding-of-emotional-and-behavioral-disorders)
6. [Chapter 3 Developing Relationships That Support Students With EBD](#chapter-3-developing-relationships-that-support-students-with-ebd)
7. [Chapter 4 Developing Behavior Standards and Increasing Students’ Motivation to Learn](#chapter-4-developing-behavior-standards-and-increasing-students-motivation-to-learn)
8. [Chapter 5 Responding Effectively to Disruptive Behavior](#chapter-5-responding-effectively-to-disruptive-behavior)
9. [Chapter 6 Developing Individualized Behavior Support Plans: Planning for Student Success](#chapter-6-developing-individualized-behavior-support-plans-planning-for-student-success)
10. [Chapter 7 Social–Emotional Learning Methods for Supporting Student Success](#chapter-7-social-emotional-learning-methods-for-supporting-student-success)
11. [Chapter 8 Developing an Effective Program for Students Identified as EBD](#chapter-8-developing-an-effective-program-for-students-identified-as-ebd)

---

## Preface

### PURPOSE  
This book was written on behalf of students who experience social, emotional, and behavior problems that negatively impact their school success. Effective interventions for students with EBD include helping them understand themselves, manage their emotions, and develop behaviors that enhance their academic success and relationships.

### AUDIENCE  
This book is for individuals seeking to advance their knowledge and skills in supporting students with EBD, including professionals currently working with these students and those involved in related coursework.

### RESEARCH BASE FOR THE MATERIALS PRESENTED IN THIS BOOK  
In writing this book, a large number of articles and research studies were reviewed. Evidence-based practices and educators’ experiences are integral to supporting students with EBD.

### OVERVIEW OF THE BOOK  
The book presents key knowledge and skills necessary for effectively supporting students with EBD, including understanding necessary developmental factors and methods for creating supportive educational environments.

---

## Chapter 1 Key Concepts and Assumptions Related to Effective Support for Students With Emotional and Behavioral Disorders

### Outcomes  
At the end of this chapter, the reader will be able to:
- Outline the current state of affairs in supporting students with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD).
- Understand the key factors influencing an educator’s ability to support EBD students becoming successful learners.
- Describe key assumptions that support effective school-based supports for EBD students.

### Key Assumptions  
#### Assumption 1: Incorporate a Wide Evidence Base  
Methods used to support students with EBD effective when founded on research-based evidence.

#### Assumption 2: Understanding Complex Factors  
An understanding of the complex factors contributing to EBD is essential to developing effective supports.

#### Assumption 3: School Staff’s Challenges  
All staff working with EBD students face challenges and require support, including attention to their wellness.

#### Assumption 4: Strong Administrative Leadership  
Support for students with EBD should begin with strong administrative leadership.

#### Assumption 5: Universal Methods  
Methods that support all students also benefit students with EBD.

---

## Chapter 2 Developing a Foundational Understanding of Emotional and Behavioral Disorders  
- Appreciate the complex nature of behavior associated with EBD.
- Understand risk and protective factors.
- Recognize key skill deficits and unique characteristics of students with EBD.
---

## Chapter 3 Developing Relationships That Support Students With EBD  
- Importance of educator–student relationships in supporting students with EBD.
- Discuss methods for developing supportive relationships with students and caregivers.

---

## Chapter 4 Developing Behavior Standards and Increasing Students’ Motivation to Learn  
- Discuss importance in developing clear classroom behavior standards.
- Explore methods to ensure students understand learning goals and classroom procedures.

---

## Chapter 5 Responding Effectively to Disruptive Behavior  
- Methods for responding effectively to disruptive or defiant behavior.  
- Provide strategies for preventive interventions and initial responses.

---

## Chapter 6 Developing Individualized Behavior Support Plans: Planning for Student Success  
- Understanding the BSP Process.
- Components of the BSP Process for effective individualized support plans.

---

## Chapter 7 Social–Emotional Learning Methods for Supporting Student Success  
- Understanding and promoting social-emotional competencies in students with EBD.

---

## Chapter 8 Developing an Effective Program for Students Identified as EBD  
- Components of effective specialized programs for students identified as EBD.
- Discuss administrative support, staff training, and program evaluation.

---

## About the Authors  
- **Vern Jones, Ph.D.** - Emeritus Professor of Education at Lewis & Clark College, specializing in EBD and classroom management.
- **Al Greenwood, Ph.D.** - Licensed psychologist consulting on special education issues and program development.

---

This book serves as an essential resource for educators aiming to enhance their skills in supporting students with emotional and behavioral disorders.
