Home | How It Works | Stats Login | Register         Case: Parental Intimidation I was in a situation last semester were I was an intern with my CT and one of the parents who's family conference I sat through frightened me. He was a very tall, very muscular man covered with tattoos and spoke very gruffly to my CT. She seemed to handle it well, but the man frightened me terribly. I could not imagine having to have done that on my own. Any suggestions how to get over such a silly fear? Or tips to calm myself when I'm feeling frightened by a parent? Solution: (Rates are posted for this solution!) I don't think your fear is silly by any means. There are many instances where teachers must handle intimidating, disrespectful parents and these encounters can be nerve-wracking. We must maintain our composure as best we can and this is a lot of pressure on us! One way that might help you feel more confident and less scared for these meetings would be to try to understand why these parents are using intimidating (body) language. Parents can be defensive of their children, especially if the child is having a harder time in school. Many parents are under the impression that they know what is best for their child and don't take kindly to advice or recommendations. Keep in mind that these conferences are for the benefit of the student as well, even if they aren't physically present. That could help motivate you during these interactions, thinking "I am having this meeting to help this student and I will try my best to work with their parents and come to an agreement/understanding".