What Is Disruptive Behavior?

Disruptive behavior may best be defined as any of the following:

1. Generally, disruptive behavior is any behavior that inhibits a faculty member's ability to conduct class or limits other student's ability to benefit from instruction.
2. Conduct, speech or activity that interferes with the learning activities of other students.

Some examples of disruptive behavior include:

• Physical violence
• Intoxication
• Verbal abuse or harassment
• Sexual Harassment
• Use of profanity
• Failing to respect others when they are expressing their viewpoints
• Talking while the instructor or other students are talking
• Constant questions or interruptions that interfere with classroom presentations by instructor or students
• Creating excessive noise

*** Note: It is important to remember that emotional and/or mental distress, or psychological disorders are not legitimate excuses for disruptive behavior in the classroom or in an academic setting. Disability claims and accommodations should be discussed with the Center for Educational Access (CEA) at 575-3104. There are established procedures that should be followed if reasonable accommodations are required.