Emotional Impairments
Definition
Emotional impairments can include relatively mild depression to chronic disorders such as manic depressive and schizophrenia. Many students who are on medication because of an emotional impairment may experience an inability to concentrate in the classroom.
Classroom Tips
Classroom needs may vary and appropriate accommodations for students with emotional impairments are developed on an individual basis based upon recommendations from the mental health facility providing documentation. Instructors should utilize the following methods for students with emotional impairments:
- Encourage the student to contact the Counselor/Coordinator of Student Accommodations regularly.
- Use positive reinforcement to encourage appropriate behavior.
- Clearly and consistently state expectations of performance and behavior both in writing and orally.
- Allow the student to tape record lectures and/or use a notetaker.
- Emphasize enhancement of the student’s self-control.
- Allow test accommodations when needed.
ADA Requirements and Available Resources
Appropriate accommodations will depend on the documented type and severity of emotional impairment. The ADA requires that students with emotional impairment be provided with the following accommodations:
- Testing alternatives
- Taped lectures
- Notetakers
Please refer students to the Counselor/Coordinator of Student Accommodations if they may benefit from these materials or equipment:
- Tape recorders
- Relaxation tapes
- Alternative testing facilities