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Direct physical aggression towards a teacher is comparatively rare: reported and recorded non-accidental injuries involve one third of one percent of teachers.
When faced with direct aggression, the two main responses are 'fight' (returning the aggression) or 'flight' (non-assertion). These may seem natural, or indeed sensible in evolutionary terms! But it is possible to develop a new response; learning to respond to aggression assertively so that you retain control of your own behaviour.
When developing this response as an addition to our repertoire, two connected things become noticeable. First we often predict that we will get a violent reaction to our assertive response. This is inaccurate. Second, our predictions shape our range of behaviour - this can be in either a limiting or expanding fashion.
Professionals who behave confidently and who give the impression that things are under control are less likely to be assaulted or to witness assaults.
Try to recall a situation where you were on the receiving end of someone else's aggression. Try to notice your own `inner dialogue'. This may be very brief, but can have strong effects, both on how you subsequently feel and on your range of possible behaviours. You can practise spotting this and its effects.
Help and support
For further advice on this issue, ATL members can speak to their school rep, their branch secretary or their regional official. They can also call the London (020 7930 6441), Cardiff (029 2046 5000) or Belfast office (02890 327 990) or email info@atl.org.uk.
For out of hours enquiries, call the out of office hours helpline on 020 7782 1612 (Monday-Friday, 5-8pm during term time).
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