Includes bibliographical references (p. 63-64) and index.

1. Who are difficult students? At loss about what to do. In the eye of the beholder. Students who challenge us the most. Questions to ask yourself -- 2. Why do they act the way they do? They are doing the best they can. Additional functions of conflict. Creating difficult students. In summary -- 3. How do they get underneath your skin? Those who don't fight fair. Protecting yourself. Pushing our buttons. Engaging the challenging student. How can you help yourself? Don't take the conflict personally. It comes with the territory -- 4. What can you do differently? Some rules of engagement. Strategic interventions -- 5. What about difficult colleagues? The least of your problems. Teachers who don't understand. Administrators who handcuff us. Parents who fight us. Counselors who undermine us -- What about you? Those who abuse you. In summary.