How do you Motivate Unmotivated Students?

Motivating and empowering troubled youth can be an even greater challenge in K-12 schools. However, Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) coupled with mentoring programs offer a potent combination to support and motivate boys who are facing difficulties. In this article, we will explore how PBIS and mentoring can create a positive impact on the lives of troubled boys, fostering motivation, resilience, and personal growth.

1. Understanding the Challenges Faced by Troubled Youth: Troubled youth often face a myriad of challenges, including academic struggles, behavioral issues, family problems, or exposure to adverse experiences. These challenges can significantly impact their motivation, engagement, and overall well-being. Recognizing and empathizing with these struggles is a crucial first step in addressing the needs of troubled boys.
   

2. PBIS: Building a Foundation for Positive Change: PBIS establishes a strong foundation by creating a positive and supportive school culture. This approach is particularly beneficial for troubled boys, as it helps them feel valued, safe, and connected to their school community. PBIS emphasizes respect, empathy, and inclusivity, which can positively impact a troubled youth's self-esteem and motivation to succeed academically and socially.
   

3. Teaching Behavioral Expectations and Social Skills: PBIS focuses on explicitly teaching behavioral expectations to troubled boys and providing them with the necessary social skills to navigate challenges effectively. By equipping them with tools for conflict resolution, emotional regulation, and communication, PBIS empowers these boys to overcome obstacles and make positive choices. Developing these skills not only enhances motivation but also prepares them for future success.
   

4. The Power of Mentoring: In conjunction with PBIS, mentoring programs play a vital role in supporting troubled boys. Mentoring provides a one-on-one relationship with a trusted adult who serves as a positive role model, guide, and advocate. Mentors can offer emotional support, help boys set goals, provide academic assistance, and encourage positive decision-making. The presence of a caring mentor can significantly impact a troubled boy's self-esteem, resilience, and motivation, as they feel heard, understood, and supported.
   

5. Individualized Supports and Interventions: PBIS and mentoring programs recognize that troubled boys often require individualized supports and interventions to address their unique challenges. By working closely with educators, support staff, and mentors, these boys receive personalized attention and tailored strategies to overcome academic, behavioral, and emotional difficulties. Individualized plans may include additional academic support, counseling services, or targeted interventions to foster motivation and growth.
   

6. Empowering Troubled Boys Through Positive Reinforcement: PBIS emphasizes positive reinforcement as a powerful motivator for troubled boys. By acknowledging and celebrating their successes, efforts, and progress, these boys gain a sense of accomplishment and recognition. Positive reinforcement can take various forms, including verbal praise, certificates, small rewards, or special privileges. These gestures not only boost motivation but also instill a sense of belief in their abilities to overcome challenges.

7. Long-term Impact and Lifelong Skills: PBIS and mentoring programs aim to provide troubled boys with the necessary skills and support to navigate their current challenges and succeed in the long term. By fostering resilience, self-advocacy, and goal-setting skills, these programs empower boys to become self-motivated learners and responsible members of society. The transformative impact of PBIS and mentoring extends beyond the school years, equipping troubled boys with lifelong skills and a positive mindset.

For troubled boys facing various challenges, PBIS and mentoring programs offer a powerful combination to inspire motivation, resilience, and personal growth. Through the implementation of PBIS, schools can create a positive and inclusive environment that supports troubled boys' well-being and academic success. Coupled with mentoring, these boys receive individualized guidance, emotional support, and positive role modeling, all of which contribute to their personal development. As educators and communities invest in these evidence-based approaches, troubled boys can overcome adversity, discover their potential, and thrive academically and personally.