Individuals identified as having an emotional impairment manifest problems primarily in the affective domain.  The behavior problems associated with an emotional impairment are demonstrated over a period of time and interfere with the student’s educational performance to such an extent that the person cannot profit from learning experiences without special education support.   Behaviors problems manifested through one of more of the following characteristics:

 

1.       Inability to build or maintain satisfactory interpersonal relationships in school

2.       Inappropriate behaviors and or feelings under normal circumstances.

3.       General mood of unhappiness or depression.

4.       Tendency to develop physical symptoms (stomach ache, headache, etc.) when faced with fears as they relate to school and personal issues.

An emotional impairment does not include individuals who are socially maladjusted unless they are also determined to have an emotional impairment.  It also does not include individuals whose behaviors are a result of cognitive, sensory or health factors.