Behavior management involves dealing with unruly, disruptive or inappropriate behavior by a person or group of people, such as in a classroom setting. Coming up with a behavior management plan is essential to establishing appropriate boundaries between teachers and students or between a patient and caregiver. Having a plan helps everyone know what's expected of them and the consequences for inappropriate behavior.
Step 1
Determine the specific types of behavior you're trying to prevent or manage. For example, a classroom full of fifth graders will have different behavioral problems than a class of high school students. Anticipate and write down specific actions or behavior, such as yelling, talking out of turn, failure to follow directions and so on.
Step 2
Make another list of the specific behaviors you expect the class or person to adhere to on a regular basis, such as staying seated, speaking respectfully or asking for permission to do certain things such as go to the bathroom.
Step 3
Assign a specific consequence or reaction to unacceptable behavior. Make the consequence applicable to the severity of the action.
Step 4
Review your behavior management plan with your class or the individual and allow them to make specific input. Allow them to express their feelings regarding specific restrictions, consequences and rewards.
Step 5
Develop a periodic behavior assessment to go along with your plan. Include how to talk to students or individuals about their specific behavior, such as what they're doing right and what areas they need to work on. Include an opportunity for the class or individual to set goals for how to improve behavior and follow up on those goals later.
