Teachers' inability to manage behavior problems in the classroom is considered the most serious problem facing teachers (U.S. Department of Education). Many years ago, it was believed that children with emotional and behavioral disorders were possessed by a demon and therefore posed a problem for clergy. It was up to the holy man to heal them. Over time, the school system took on greater responsibility for their treatment. Parents and professionals investigating why some children suffer from externalizing disorders must examine a range of potential influences that include the individual's family factors, societal influences, biological makeup, and cognitive abilities. Defining emotional and behavioral problems in children is not easy. . The federal definition of emotional and behavioral disorders is a condition exhibiting one or more of the following characteristics over a long period of time and to a marked degree that negatively affects academic performance:A. An inability to learn that cannot be explained by intellectual, sensory or health factorsB. An inability to establish or maintain satisfactory interpersonal relationships with peers and teachers.C. Types of behavior or feelings that are inappropriate under normal circumstancesD. A pervasive general mood of unhappiness or depressionE. A tendency to develop physical symptoms or fears associated with personal or academic problemsF. The term does not apply to socially maladjusted children unless it is established that they suffer from an emotional disorder. Although this definition attempts to guide the educational professions, it remains insufficient in that it places all responsibility on the child and none. on the environment in which the child is educated or resides...... middle of paper ......affects the treatment of the child. Parents are experts on their own child and their feelings and behavior. They are case managers, policy makers, teachers, and legislative advocates. Professionals are experts in general areas such as special education, mental health, and must be expert in the diagnoses given to the child. Their responsibility is to ensure that parents have the latest research and information that will attempt to understand bad behavior and provide positive behavioral support. The role of teachers in the partnership is to help the student take responsibility for their behavior rather than being “forced” to change by various external controls. Through self-management, students will gain awareness, skills and commitment to eliminate negative behaviors and acquire new constructive ones...