Disruptive, Threatening, or Violent Persons

Marist College does not tolerate acts or threats of disruptive behavior and/or physical violence that involve or affect the College community, including intimidation, harassment and/or coercion.

• Disruptive behavior is inappropriate behavior that interferes with the functioning and flow of the workplace. Examples include yelling, using profanity, waving arms or fists, verbally abusing others, and refusing reasonable requests for identification.
• Threatening behavior includes physical actions short of actual contact/injury (e.g., moving closer aggressively), oral or written threats to people or property (“You better watch your back” or “I’ll get you”) as well as implicit threats (“You’ll be sorry” or “This isn’t over”).
• Violent behavior includes any physically aggressive act (e.g., poking, shoving, hitting), with or without weapons; as well as behavior that a reasonable person would interpret as being aggressive or violent (e.g., throwing things, pounding on a desk or door, or destroying property).

Below is a list of signs that may be indicators of disruptive behavior. If you observe a pattern or change in behavior and attitude that causes you concern, it is important to take some sort of action.

• Repetitive verbal abuse, including sarcasm or poor relationship with customers, co-workers, supervisors, or others
• Very controlling
• Blaming others for problems in life or work; being suspicious, holding grudges
• Persistent complaining
• Challenging or resisting authority
• Destruction of college property
• Becoming unusually upset over recent event(s) (work or personal crisis)
• Withdrawing from normal activities, family, friends, and co-workers
• Making a major change in lifestyle, demeanor, or appearance

How to Respond to Disruptive Behavior

If you experience any generally disruptive or threatening behavior, you should report it as soon as possible. You can speak with your RA/RD, or you can call the Office of Safety & Security.

However, if the behavior is violent and/or aggressive and you believe it represents an immediate threat of harm, dial 911 or call the Office of Safety & Security at (845) 471-1822 immediately.