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Behavioral Intervention


With students facing high levels of stress in their lives, faculty and staff may encounter students whose behaviors are concerning, disruptive, or threatening towards themselves or others. In an effort to respond to the safety needs of the campus, the University of Utah Asia Campus has established the Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT).

How the Process Works

When a BIT report is filed, the leadership team will receive a notification. The UAC Dean of Students then reviews the report and gathers further information to add to the report. The Dean of Students may modify or update the report as needed to record the most accurate depiction of the student concerns. After review of the report, appropriate outreach will be conducted.

When to make a report

Often, faculty or staff are in a position to offer a helping hand to students. If you are concerned that a student may be in a state of emotional distress, make a report. Each person has their own comfort level in terms of discussing issues with students. Do the best you can. The most important thing is that you do something.

You should make a report when you notice changes or behaviors that you would consider unusual for that student. The list of behaviors below may be indicators of distress, especially when multiple signs are present.

Indicators of Stress

Stress may manifest itself in different ways in different students. In the long run, it doesn’t hurt to make a report no matter what the outcome may be.

Talk about it

Broach the subject in a caring and supportive way. Cleary express your concern to students and remind them that they have a personal responsibility as a member of the community. Respect the student’s privacy, but don’t promise confidentiality.

Engage in conversation by remaining calm, concise, and clear when speaking with the student. Gain a clear understanding of what the student is saying or asking. Ask the student about their support network. Listen! Don’t minimize the problem or try to solve it too quickly without advice.

Consult with someone – you can connect with the Dean of Students.

You can always refer to the Dean of Students when in doubt. Reassure the student that their decision to seek help or support is a wise choice – they are not alone. Offer to meet with the student again to follow up and check in on them.