Teacher/Specialist: Emotional or Behavioral Disorders

Special education teachers who specialize in emotional or behavioral disorders work with students who exhibit a wide range of characteristics, including but not limited to aggressive behaviors, attention deficit hyperactivity disorders, depression, and anxiety or conduct disorders. Teachers serving these students may do so in the inclusive classroom, in a pull-out/resource model, or in a self-contained classroom environment depending on the nature of the behavioral characteristics being exhibited. Some school districts may have a separate school for students who are unable to effectively function in a regular school environment.

A strong working knowledge of behavioral strategies and interventions is necessary. Many special education teachers who work with students with emotional and behavioral disorders choose to pursue a Behavioral Specialist degree in postsecondary education.