Disruptive Individuals
Safety Considerations for Faculty, Staff, and Students
Who is a disruptive individual?
- An individual who makes threats of physical harm to you, others, or themselves.
- An individual who behaves in a bizarre manner or exhibits unstable behavior patterns.
- An individual who appears to be intoxicated or under the influence of a controlled substance.
What action should I take?
- Contact Campus Police at ext. 3111 or 580.774.3111 or the Weatherford Police Department at 580.772.7791.
- Give your name and campus location with a brief explanation of the situation.
- Take note of the individual's age, personal appearance, clothing, vehicle, or any other information that would help identify the individual.
Express your authority with non-verbal cues
- Sit or stand erect.
- Square your shoulders.
- Smile and make eye contact.
- Speak clearly and distinctly.
- Maintain a constant voice volume—not too loud.
Cues to avoid
- Observe the individuals personal space—do not stand too close.
- Do not touch the person.
- Do not slouch, glare, or sigh at the individual.
Anger Management Tactics
- Get their attention: Use their name. Ask them to sit down.
- Acknowledge their feelings: Paraphrase what they say so they will know you are listening.
- Get them moving: Offer a chair, move them to a private area if possible.
- Offer assistance: Use the word “we” to include them in the solution process.
- Tell them exactly what you can do for them and when.
- Offer an alternative if appropriate.
- Advise co-workers of the potential problem if possible.
- Call for aid immediately if you sense the situation is getting out of hand.