Self Diagnosis
I have main issues with students that have some type of disability, but do not seek out help. What is the best way to approach a situation when you see a student that could have dyslexia, but may not have been diagnosed or known about it? Is it up to us to talk with them, or find someone else to approach them?
One of the most difficult things to do in life is the self diagnosis. I still have issues with students that have some sort of learning or physical disability and want to be a good facilitators for them.Right now I am dealing with two sign language interpreters in my classroom and a student who I am trying to reach to. I want to be there for him because is very smart.
Well, understanding that we are primarily educators and not clinical psychologists, the first is our own education - we have to take time and learn about PTSD in general. Start with understanding the terminology in the DSM5 and the wealth of therapy information on the web regarding PTSD. Learn about triggers and coping mechanisms and, if it were me, I'd do it from the view of the patient.
If the school knows any therapists, perhaps they might be willing to conduct an in-service on PTSD - some might even do it for free as a way to drum up business for students who might be looking for therapy. The school may have specific rules regarding this, but in general, bringing in experts from the outside is always good - for students and for instructors.
Second, as a school, set up a function through Student Services that provides the students with a sense that the school wants to be accommodating towards students with PTSD. Provide a mechanism that students can confide their condition so the instructor knows how to handle it. Most schools I know of have some sort of process in place to accommodate students with disabilities, so use that framework.
Third, and most important, get to know the students in your class. A genuine and caring instructor who is interested in the students' successes will take the time to get to know these things. Document cases with the school administration. Allow them to confide in you and protect their trust. You'll find that goes a long way. If we want student success, we must meet them where they are and encourage them to rise to the level they need to be.
And particular to our veterans, they have given us so much of their lives that it goes without saying that we should be willing to build back into them.
Rick
What are some of the ways an instructor might help someone suffering from PTSD?
Julia,
no you should not "treat" any student like they have a disability whether they do or not. Certain accommodations should be made for those students who are identified as having a learning disability. A student may be struggling for a variety of reasons, but until they show that they have been diagnosed with a disability you are not obligated or required to offer accommodations.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Julia,
no you should not "treat" any student like they have a disability whether they do or not. Certain accommodations should be made for those students who are identified as having a learning disability. A student may be struggling for a variety of reasons, but until they show that they have been diagnosed with a disability you are not obligated or required to offer accommodations.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Are we as instructors supposed to 'treat' students as if they have a disability when they may not because they may or may not be as dilligent about why they are in school or are pursuing an advanced career.
More and more schools are now incorporating entire functions and staffs to helping people with learning issues.
The one thing that the text did not talk about is ones who have an LD as a result of something like PTSD, which is a growing problem now with more of our students being combat veterans. When students see there is a defined framework at the organizational level that is willing to help them, they may feel less afraid to come forward, particularly if the function is headed by someone who has psychological credentials.
-R
Joseph,
really you have to wait for them to disclose or you can encourage your students to come to you if they feel they are struggling & needing help.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Joseph,
really you have to wait for them to disclose or you can encourage your students to come to you if they feel they are struggling & needing help.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
