DEALING WITH THE STUDENTS

“True teachers are those who use themselves as bridges over which they invite their students to cross; then having facilitated their crossing, joyfully collapse, encouraging them to create their own”

— Nikos Kazantzakis

Of all the hard jobs around, one of the hardest jobs is being a “Teacher”. Yes, being a teacher is a very tough job because the teachers deal with different types of students and their behaviours with patience by supporting and helping them to achieve success.

Let us all thank our great teachers because they made us what we are today by sharing their knowledge and guiding us in the right direction by providing their support.

“We honestly believe that people go into teaching because they want to make a difference in student’s lives”

— Mira Halpert & Mark Halpert

Amongst all the age groups, teaching to and dealing with the teenagers is very hard because they are adolescents. Adolescence is neither childhood nor adulthood because of which the students at this age group, i.e., 13 to 17 years are confused about their role and identity.

They want to fit in this society or group, want to create their own identity by being independent while exploring new things which can positively or negatively affect their behaviours.

The college faculty and staff most of the times face different types of student behaviours such as being too sensitive, inconsistent daily work, fighting with others, arguments, being very aggressive, blaming others, destroying objects, punching walls etc., which becomes a challenging task for the staff.

“The best teachers are those who show their students where to look but don’t tell them what to see”

— Alexandra K. Trenfor

Different Problems Observed Among Adolescents

1. Physical Changes

Due to changes in hormone levels, physical changes take place amongst adolescents. Most adolescents are not aware of what they are undergoing. So, creating awareness helps them deal with these physical changes effectively.

2. Emotional Changes and Problems

Hormones affect not only physically but emotionally as well. Adolescents may experience mood swings, excitement, anger, sadness, and emotional sensitivity. Adolescence can truly feel like an emotional roller-coaster.

Tips to deal with emotional problems:

• Tell students it is okay to feel the way they are feeling and encourage self-care.
• Encourage physical activities like brisk walking, running, or climbing stairs to improve mood.
• Listen without judging or constantly advising them.
• Help them channelise emotions through creative activities.

3. Behavioural Changes

Irresistible emotions may lead to impulsive behaviours that can harm both the student and others. Adolescents may question rules, become stubborn, or engage in risk-taking behaviours.

Peer pressure may also influence unhealthy habits, risky lifestyles, lying, or blaming others to avoid conflict.

Tips to deal with behavioural problems:

• Understand that behavioural changes are often a passing phase.
• Build trust through open communication and non-judgmental listening.
• Share your own experiences to help students relate and feel understood.

4. Psychological Problems

Some psychological concerns include low self-esteem, stress, low confidence, poor academic performance, mood swings, sleep disturbances, eating pattern changes, social withdrawal, and lack of motivation.

Tips to deal with psychological problems:

• Observe behavioural changes carefully and speak privately with the student.
• Promote healthy lifestyle habits to improve mental well-being.
• Communicate with friends or parents if behaviour changes appear consistent.
• Create a trustworthy environment where students feel safe to share their concerns.

How can you support students?

You might not solve all their problems completely, but your support can make a meaningful difference. If the behaviour continues, seek help from a mental health professional (Psychologist).

Students can also contact the DISHA Helpline: 18004191828.

Helpful tips while interacting with students:

• Sit facing each other on the same side of the table while talking.
• Maintain eye contact to show genuine interest.
• Listen and understand without judging.
• Convey empathy through supportive statements like: “That must be hard”, “That sounds really challenging”, “I can see how that would be difficult.”

“Good teachers know how to bring out the best in students.” — Charles Kuralt

“If a child can’t learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn.” — Ignacio Estrada