Behavior disordered is a term frequently used interchangeably with emotionally disturbed or socially maladjusted. These terms describe children who are troubled and who may also cause trouble for parents, teachers, peers, and others. Problems associated with defining and identifying behavior disorders, or conduct disorders, are far more difficult than those relating to physical disabilities. Estimates of the prevalence of behavior disorders vary considerably depending on the criteria used for identification and on whether estimates include mild as well as severe instances. It has been estimated that 15% to 19% of U.S. children and adolescents have problems requiring some form of mental health services. Factors that contribute to the development of behavior disorders vary greatly. They are often classified as genetic or congenital versus social or psychological. Given adequate knowledge of biological history and environment, it is sometimes possible to identify children who may be at greater risk for behavior disorders than others.
Project Outcome: Improving the outcomes of secondary-age students with emotional disturbance--U.S. Department of Education (1999-2004)
Carolyn Hughes, Ph.D., Principal Investigator, Joseph Wehby, Ph.D.
Project PBS [Positive Behavior Support]: A three-tiered prevention model to better serve all students--U. S. Department of Education (2002-2005)
Kathleen Lane, Ph.D., Principal Investigator, Joseph Wehby, Ph.D. This project addresses the following objectives: (a) examines the challenges of implanting a three-tier model of positive behavior support at the high school level in a rural community; (b) identifies the types and patterns of behavioral problems manifested at the high school level; (c) designs and implements systematically a three-tier model with primary, secondary, and tertiary interventions using data-based decision making; and (4) evaluates how students with varying types of behavior problems respond to various levels of supports.
Project CLASS: Accessing the general education curriculum for students with emotional disturbance using cooperative learning and social skills training--U. S. Department of Education (2000-2004)
Joseph Wehby, Ph.D.
Conduct Disorders, Facts for Families
National Institute for Mental Health
National Technical Assistance Center on
Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)
Center for Effective Collaboration and Practice-Temporary Service for children and youth with emotional and behavioral problems.
Center for Disease Control--Facts about violence among youth and violence in schools