Tackling Toxic Classroom Dynamics: The Four Horsemen of Education
Contempt, my friends, is one of Gottman’s Four Horsemen. The Four Horsemen are indicators of a corroding relationship. The other three are Criticism, Defensiveness and Stonewalling.
Ever felt the sting of criticism or the icy wall of defensiveness in a school setting? In this episode of Arkansas A.W.A.R.E., hosts Dr. Betsy Kindall, Nicole Fairchild, and Dr. Stacy Moore dive into the thorny issues of contempt, criticism, defensiveness, and stonewalling—known as Gottman's Four Horsemen. These behaviors can wreak havoc on relationships within educational environments, corroding trust and collaboration among students and educators alike.
With their usual blend of wit and wisdom, the trio dissects these toxic dynamics and offers practical strategies to counteract them. By fostering vulnerability and coaching, they aim to create a culture of safety and trust. Whether you're a teacher, administrator, or just someone invested in educational mental health, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice.
Tune in for a candid discussion that tackles the tough questions: Are these destructive behaviors lurking in your classroom or school culture? And more importantly, how can you address them effectively?