Western Carolina University

Facts About Aggression

Aggression varies from threats to verbal abuse to physical abuse and violence.

• It is very difficult to predict aggression and violence.

Some indicators of potential violence may include:

• Paranoia/mistrust
• An unstable school or vocational history
• A history of juvenile violence or substance abuse
• Prior history of violence or abuse
• Fascination with weapons
• History of cruelty to animals as a child or adolescent
• Impulse control problems
• Fire-starting behaviors

Please consult with the Department of Student Community Ethics (DSCE) to document the situation and determine if student disciplinary action is necessary (828.227.7234).

WHAT YOU CAN DO

• Assess your level of safety. Call 828.227.8911 if you feel in danger.
• If you feel it is appropriate to stay with the student, remain in an open area with a close exit (sit closest to the door).
• Enlist the help of a co-worker.
• Explain to the student the behaviors that are unacceptable.
• Stay calm and set limits.
• Use a time-out strategy (that is, ask the student to reschedule a meeting with you once he/she has calmed down) if the student refuses to cooperate and remains aggressive or agitated.
• Consult with professionals at the Office of Student Affairs (828.227.7234) or Counseling and Psychological Services (828.227.7469).

AVOID

• Staying in a situation in which you feel unsafe.
• Meeting alone with the student.
• Engaging in a screaming match or behaving in other ways that escalate anxiety and aggression.
• Ignoring signs that student’s anger is escalating.
• Touching the student or crowding his or her sense of personal space.
• Ignoring a gut reaction that you are in danger.