Behaviour problems in the classroom : a model for teachers to assist learners with unmet emotional needs

Abstract

Tbis study has as primary objective the development of an appropriate model to assist ' teachers, in South Africa, to be able to understand and assist learners with behaviour problems. The need for the study has its genesis within the current difficulties teachers experience in dealing with behaviour problems in the classroom and the fact that increasing numbers of children are involved. A key facet of the research is its accent on the unmet emotional needs of learners that function as a behavioural determinant. The study is analytical descriptive in nature and as such is based on two fundamental dimensions:- to acquire a sound theoretical understanding of the concepts, causative 'factors and underlying behaviour problems and the most appropriate means to deal therewith and substantiating the insights acquired by means of interviews with teachers, school principals, and other significant role players. An earnest attempt was made to analyse behaviour problems in terms of the various theoretical frameworks presented within contemporary literature. The ecological systems model was found to be the most appropriate for the development of the . referenced model. This stands in sharp contrast to the traditional medical model which in many instances still forms the basis of current theory and practice. Learners with emotional problems experience behaviour problems which serve as barriers to effective learning. Little attention however, has been attributed to putting appropriate systems in place to assist these learners. A key consideration embodied within the new Education Policy (NCS DOCUMENT 1997:1 0) is the issue of meeting the needs of all learners so that they are able to actualise their potential - this includes their emotional needs. The findings of this study need to be seen within the light of meeting this objective. In order to address the unmet emotional needs of learner, teachers must attend to the cognitive mind maps which embody internalized feelings and cognition. A model for understanding the cognitive maps has been developed as part of this study and serves as introduction to the model developed to assist learners wi~h behaviour problems. The study provides a new perspective directed at understanding instead of managing behaviour problems.