Warning Signs/ Red Flag Behaviors

The Importance of Reporting Red Flag Behaviors- The overall goal of the Behavioral Intervention/ Violence Prevention Plan is to promote a safe college environment for all students and staff focused on student learning and student development. By encouraging all members of the community campuses to report behaviors that are concerning, the BIT will be able to reach out to students to intervene, provide support and connect them with resources that can assist them.

Identifying “Red Flag” Behaviors- Recognizing that it is not uncommon for college students to display some questionable or inappropriate behaviors, “red flag” behaviors are those questionable, suspicious or inappropriate behaviors that go beyond what seems normal or reasonable for the situation. “Red flag” behaviors may be presented through a student’s appearance, spoken or written works, or specific actions.

Examples of “red flag” behaviors include:

• Behaviors which regularly interfere with classroom environment or management
• Notable change in academic performance- poor inconsistent preparation
• Notable change in behavior or appearance
• Impairment of thoughts- verbal or written
• Overly aggressive behaviors toward others; inability to set limits or re-direct focus
• Poor decision-making and coping skills
• Inappropriate or strange behavior
• Low frustration tolerance
• Overreaction to circumstances
• Lack of resiliency
• Writings and comments endorsing violence; unusual interest in violence
• Indirect or direct threats in writings or verbalizations
• Lack of empathy and concern for others; inability to care
• Anger management problems
• Threats to others
• Appearance of being overly nervous, tense, or tearful
• Expression of suicidal thoughts or feelings of hopelessness