Navigating the Challenges of Structured Social and Emotional Programming

Teachers are leaving the profession at a staggering rate. This is especially true for teachers of students with emotional and behavioral disorders. By targeting students’ social and emotional skills, teachers could see major improvements in student behavior. However, teachers lack adequate preservice training and ongoing professional development in behavioral management and are therefore underequipped to manage behavioral challenges, leading to higher stress and affecting attrition. One proposed remedy is better instructional supports for teachers in the classroom. In this commentary we outline the current challenges surrounding the provision of quality social and emotional instruction in schools. We argue that teachers need access to comprehensive, structured programs to provide individualized instruction on social and emotional skills. Results of a pilot study are shared, and future directions are explored.