Understanding & Managing Challenging Behaviour l Heart Teaching

Managing Challenging Behaviour in the Classroom: Causes and Strategies

Challenging behaviour is a common issue faced by educators in mainstream and SEN schools alike. It can appear as disruptive actions, defiance, aggression, or even emotional withdrawal. These behaviours can create barriers to learning, but they are often signs of unmet needs or emotional struggles.

At Heart Teaching, we believe that understanding the reasons behind challenging behaviour is the first step to managing it effectively. In this post, we’ll explore common causes and provide practical strategies to support both staff and students.

1. Communication Difficulties

One major cause of challenging behaviour is difficulty expressing thoughts and feelings. Many students—particularly those with Special Educational Needs (SEN)—struggle to communicate their emotions, needs, or frustrations. This can lead to:

Outbursts or aggression
Avoidance or withdrawal
Refusal to engage

What educators can do:

Use visuals, sign language, or assistive tech to aid communication
Be patient and give students time to express themselves
Recognise behaviour as a form of communication, not just disruption

2. Struggles with Emotional Regulation

Some students find it hard to manage emotions like anger, anxiety, or sadness. When these emotions become overwhelming, behaviour may escalate.

Supportive strategies include:

Teaching deep breathing or mindfulness techniques
Creating a calm-down space in the classroom
Modelling emotional regulation as a staff team

3. Learning Difficulties and SEN Needs

Students with learning difficulties, ADHD, autism, or processing disorders may feel frustrated when they can’t access the curriculum as easily as their peers. This frustration can lead to disengagement or acting out.

How to help:

Differentiate tasks to suit different learning styles
Use visual aids and multisensory teaching
Offer assistive technology or 1:1 support where needed

4. Social and Emotional Challenges

Some challenging behaviour is linked to peer conflicts, low self-esteem, or problems at home. When students feel isolated or insecure, they may respond with disruptive actions.

Build social-emotional skills by:

Teaching empathy, teamwork, and active listening
Running group activities that foster connection
Creating a school culture that values every student

5. Environmental Triggers

The physical classroom environment can have a big impact on student behaviour. Noise, transitions, and clutter may cause sensory overload or stress.

Create a positive classroom environment by:

Using clear routines and visual schedules
Minimising unnecessary noise or movement
Offering quiet zones or sensory supports

6. Trauma and Past Experiences

Students who have experienced trauma may show behaviours linked to fear, anxiety, or hyper-vigilance. Their behaviour may be protective, not intentional.

Support trauma-affected students with:

A trauma-informed approach: safety, consistency, and trust
Low-stress transitions and predictable routines
Strong, supportive relationships with trusted adults

Conclusion: Empathy Leads to Impact

Understanding the “why” behind challenging behaviour helps educators respond with compassion, not punishment. Every behaviour is a form of communication—and by meeting students’ needs proactively, we create calmer, more inclusive classrooms.

At Heart Teaching, we support schools and educators in managing behaviour through SEN expertise, staff training, and personalised placements. Together, we can build learning environments where every student feels safe, understood, and empowered.