Which of the following is NOT a recommended question to assess your student's behavior?

• A. Should you debate the child's motives?
• B. Is there a physical problem?
• C. Are there cultural differences contributing to the problem?
• D. Is there a misunderstanding of what behavior is expected?

Answer: (A)

When evaluating student behavior, start with observable factors and practical context you can address. Debating a child’s motives asks you to infer internal thoughts and reasons, which isn’t directly observable and can lead to bias, misinterpretation, and defensiveness. This shifts focus away from tangible factors you can check or adjust. In contrast, asking about potential physical problems, cultural differences that might influence behavior, or whether the expectations were clearly understood are all constructive, actionable lines of inquiry. They help you identify real, addressable causes and create a plan to support the student. So the question about motives isn’t recommended because it relies on assumptions about internal states rather than observable, solvable factors.