Educator Perceptions of Behavior Problems of Mainstreamed Students

Abstract

The behavior problems of students in mainstreamed classrooms may be due in part to the expectations of educators who have not internalized information on teaching the diversity of students found in that setting. The educators involved in this study were predominantly regular classroom teachers but also included counselors, librarians, special educators, administrators, etc. They appeared to perceive student behavior problems as more serious when displayed by nonhandicapped or physically handicapped students than when displayed by mentally handicapped students. The same educators recommended more behavioral treatments having an authoritarian orientation for nonhandicapped than for physically handicapped students. This study indicates educators need to develop attitudes and skills necessary for behavior management in the mainstreamed school environment.