Teacher perceptions and management of challenging student behaviours in primary school classrooms

Abstract

This study aimed at investigating Teacher perceptions and management of challenging student behaviours in classrooms and what support is available to the teachers to manage students with challenging behaviours. Managing challenging behaviour in a classroom setting is a problem faced by many teachers. The literature review indicated that teachers who show a genuine interest in students and what they learn and do are more likely to build strong positive relationships with their students and as a result are better able to manage challenging behaviours in their classrooms. The literature review also indicated that it is important, that teachers recognise their perceptions of challenging behaviour and reflect on their own personal beliefs and the beliefs of others regarding the understanding of challenging behaviours. The study is a small-scale educational research project that was qualitative in nature. The qualitative nature of this research allowed for the exploration of the eight teacher participants’ experiences shared during the semi-structured interviews regarding challenging behaviours and what the issues are in managing these behaviours. The outcomes of this study confirm findings in literature by demonstrating that a close, positive and supportive relationship between teacher and students is essential for developing a mutual relationship of respect and for managing challenging behaviours successfully. Findings indicate that teachers need to discuss with colleagues their current perceptions and attitudes towards working with those students who present challenges and investigate ways of working positively with these students. School management and teachers need to work collaboratively in order to minimise the occurrence of and impact of challenging behaviours in classrooms. Findings also indicated some issues raised by teachers that were not viewed in the literature. reviewed. For example issues facing teachers due to occurrence of challenging student behaviour.