Look Beyond Disability Label When Determining Behavior's Manifestation

Today's School Psychologist quoted Partner Dianna Bowen in  an article entitled “Look Beyond Disability Label When Determining Behavior's Manifestation.”

The article highlights an example of a student with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder bringing a homemade explosive device to school. The student's school district expelled him and deemed his conduct not a manifestation of his disability.

“In this case, a school must consider a student's current behaviors and the history of his behaviors," said Dianna. “A student could have a million diagnoses under the other health impairment code or the emotional disturbance code, but you have to look at the specific symptoms the child exhibits as they relate to his disability,” she said. “Don't just look at the diagnosis."