Name: Courtney Hallam Exceptionality: Emotional and Behavioral Disorders EDSP 200—Dr.

Hollis

An Emotional and Behavioral Disorder is defined as a disability that is characterized by emotional or

Definition behavioral responses in school-age children. In order for one to be diagnosed with an EBD they must meet
three criteria. The child’s behavior must be chronic, severe, and adversely affect their academic performance.

Some characteristics of an EBD include

There is no systematic method in place for
identifying EBDs. However, these children often
identify themselves. One way to identify a child
with an EBD would be by observing their
Identification
behavior, but this can be difficult to see in younger
children and students with internalized behaviors.
Young children’s behavior changes frequently, and
internalized behaviors cannot be seen.
externalized behaviors (e.g. yell, curse, hit,
etc.), internalized behaviors (e.g. anxiety,
phobias, selective mutism, etc.), poor
Characteristics
academic achievement, low intelligence,
difficulty with developing social skills and
interpersonal relationships, and increased
juvenile delinquency.

12% of students have moderate

to severe EBDs Biological: Brain disorders, genetics, and temperament
13%-20% of students
Prevalence experience a mental disorder Causes Environmental: their relationships with family at home, relationships
3%-6% of school-age children with teachers and peers in school, and community influences (e.g.
have an EBD drugs, alcohol, gangs, etc.)
Over ¾ of males have an EBD

Appropriate curriculum goals, social skills
curricula and training programs, research-based
teaching practices, teacher praise active student
Instruction responding, schoolwide positive behavioral
interventions and supports, self-management,
proactive and positive classroom management,
peer mediation and support
Most students benefit greatly from being in general
education, but some find more success in a special
education class. Some students with an EBD are in
Placement options
general education classes for their entire academic
career. However, there are some that start in special
education classes and transition to general education.