Student Development Theory and Helping Skills
Supporting a student holistically means
What is taking an overall, inclusive approach concerning physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual factors to support the resident and their unique needs.
What are 3 de-escalating strategies that promote positive communication?
Stay calm, express calm body language, open posture, active listening, acknowledge emotions, ask open-ended questions, avoid judgement, any more we can think of?
What does CSA stand for? How does it apply to the RA role?
What is Campus Security Authority. The responsibility of an individual to report certain crimes (Clery)
Describe a single-story perspective
A narrative told from one perspective, which can lead to stereotypes and a limited understanding of a person, place, or situation.
When dealing with a conflict, what steps do you take to balance neutrality and fairness to both parties?
Do your best to remain impartial and if you do not feel you can, ask another RA or a member of pro-staff for help.
Listen to both parties and recognize the truth of the situation is likely in the middle of what both are saying. Validate each person’s feelings without telling people they are wrong or right.
Describe 3 ways you can create an inclusive space for a neurodivergent resident
What is Sensory (lighting and sound), slowing down when communicating, affirming, having fidget toys/allowing resident to walk around or stand, clear concise directions, inviting students in to collaborate together, connecting resident with resources/clubs/events, contacting student/pro-staff on call when needed
How you would communicate to a resident that some things need to be reported when the resident does not want anything reported.
“ As a Mandated Reporter, I may need to share some of the information you have told me with a student affairs staff member. I will only share what I need to and can let you know what I share. “
An Ally is
What is This person is someone who supports and advocates for marginalized groups, even though they are not a member of those groups
What is the general idea of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs and why is it important?
5 Stages of human needs that motivate our behaviors. This is important for residents as they require basic needs to be met to be successful and feel safe at college.
A microaggression is
What is a statement, action, or incident regarded as an instance of indirect, subtle, or unintentional discrimination against members of a marginalized group.
How can you get advice or perspective from a member of the RA team without breaking confidentiality
What is 1- Keep Confidentiality in mind, do not include names or any identifying information.
2- Approach these conversations with the intent of getting advice and not gossiping. Phrase questions with “What would you do in this situation”, “what could I do differently next time” “Can we come up with some ideas on how I can support this resident in the future”
The definition's of Race and Ethnicity
What is Race: Refers to human affiliation based on shared physical traits (that are deemed socially significant by society); an indication of the heritage in which you were born, regardless of location or learned behavior; biologically based with social construction
Ethnicity: Refers to shared. cultural practices, traditions, and perspectives stemming from common national or regional backgrounds; can include language, customs, heritage, religion, dress, etc.
What are the 5 Upstander D’s? In addition, give an example of what 1 of the 5 D’s may look like.
Direct, Distract, Delegate, Delay, Document.
How would you balance residents having beliefs that may differ from yours?
What is Keep in mind that everyone is allowed to have their own beliefs, however they can not take actions that harm another based on those beliefs.
Listening is your best approach and you don’t need to agree with something to understand their point of view.
Describe the steps you would take during a suicidal ideation situation?
What is Question, Persuade, Refer. Contact pro-staff, counseling, hotlines.
Describe 3 ways we can challenge stereotypes and gender roles within our communities?
Using inclusive language, equal opportunities, using appropriate pronouns, gender-neutral language, signage that reflects community, checking your own bias, educational events to break barriers and start conversations in a safe space, be a role model.