The Study
Individual students who have serious or persistent behavior problems are the chief cause of teachers' stress, according to recent research. However, teachers can take actions to minimize classroom conflicts by socializing students into a classroom community conducive to learning. Dr. Jere Brophy, University Distinguished Professor of Teacher Education at Michigan State University, and other researchers have explored elements impacting successful student socialization and identified teacher attributes that contribute to it.

The Findings
Teachers who are supportive of successful student socialization provide modeling and instruction concerning desirable behavior in the classroom; communicate positive expectations of that behavior; and reinforce the desired behavior when it occurs. These teachers use an authoritative (but not authoritarian) teaching style in matters related to classroom management while at the same time developing positive relationships with individual students. Basic socialization and counseling skills may be needed to work successfully with students who display chronic problems in personal development or adjustments. In short, a teacher must be prepared to develop personal relationships with problem students and reassure them of his/her continued concern about their welfare despite their provocative behavior. According to the research, teachers who are successful in socializing students have a cheerful disposition, are friendly and sincere, remain calm in a crisis, enjoy students, are active listeners, are both patient and determined in the way they work with students, are comfortable fulfilling the role of teacher and are both firm and flexible in setting limits.

What It Means to You
Developing the skills for enhancing student socialization represents an expansion of the teacher's role beyond that of instructor or classroom manager. Skills for socializing students effectively can be learned. Teachers who believe that they possess, or at least are developing, good management and student socialization skills will be able to remain patient and focused on seeking solutions when confronted with difficult problems. In contrast, teachers who view themselves as lacking these skills may become frustrated and stop trying to help students cope with their problems. By helping students gain better insights into themselves and their behavior and begin to accept responsibility for controlling their own behavior, teachers can create an environment where disciplinary interventions will be minimized and the classroom culture fosters learning.

More Information
You can get more information about enhancing students' socialization by consulting Brophy, J. (1996), Teaching Problem Students, New York: Guilford.

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