Students with Psychological DisabilitiesPsychological disabilities cover a wide range of disorders, such as anxiety, depression and personality disorders. Depression and anxiety are among the most common psychological impairments of college students with disabilities. These types of disabilities may be invisible or latent, with little or no effects on a student's learning. Even though students with psychological impairments may not have direct learning problems they may exhibit behavioral problems. Some emotional disturbances may be manifested in negative behavior that could cause class disruptions. Dealing with conduct problems makes it hard to remember that these students have as little control over their disabilities as the student with a physical impairment. Patience and understanding are a key element in working with students with psychological impairments. However, there are types of conduct considered major offenses for any student and which may be punished by expulsion or suspension. These may be found in the College catalog under "Student Misconduct".
The majority of psychological disabilities are controlled using a combination of medication and psychotherapy. The medication they are on may interfere with the learning process.
Reasonable consideration for absences and lateness.
Reasonable consideration for fluctuating performance.
Assistance in developing a study schedule.
Use of a note taker or tape recorder.
Alternate test locations to reduce anxiety and provide freedom from distractions.
Special seating i.e. next to the door, in the back of the room.
Extended time on testing and some assignments.
Established signals to indicate when behavior is inappropriate.
If a student's behavior begins to affect his/her work or other students, the following measures may be necessary.
Discuss inappropriate behavior with the student privately, directly, and forthrightly.
Set clear limits for acceptable classroom conduct.
Discuss the class requirements with the student individually to reinforce expectations.
Discuss only the student's behavior in the classroom rather than the disabling psychological background.
Refer the student to Disability Services if further help is needed.
Promptly refer any abusive or threatening behavior to the Division Director. Students who are disruptive and unable to abide by the institutional code of conduct are deemed "not qualified" and may be dismissed from the College.
Blue Ridge Community College
Disability Services Office
Flat Rock Campus, Room 127 - David W. Sink Jr. Building
828-694-1813 (voice) 
800-735-2962 (tty relay)
Accessibility meets:
