EDPY 304: Adolescence 

Topic 10: Problems

I think our primary role, as teachers, with regard to managing the several different types of challenges discussed in this topic, is to act as mediators and support systems for our students. We are the people who our students should feel comfortable coming to if they are going through major life challenges, such as parental divorces, stress-overload, insecurities, bullying, etc. As Dr. Cormier closed class on Thursday, he gave us one very important tip that we should really take into account: "do not go into these situations alone." Many times, teachers require the help of another professional to help resolve the problem. The teacher's role is to put students in contact with the resources to help them through it, and act as a permanent support-system through the entire thing. However, by going into these situations alone, sometimes, though they mean well, things can go downhill. This is why it is so important to act as that mediator between the student and the external help-resources.

I think another important role that comes into play, that also comes hand-in-hand with the previous role, is acting as a non-judgemental person of trust for the student. If we can really make the relationship between the student a trust-filled one, then we can definetely be the best helpers and supporters to provide the help and resources that the student needs to get through this adversity.