Students with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) are less successful in school than their peers. In order for teachers and researchers to effectively partner to identify and support these students, they must focus on the same problem behaviors. This research identified six components of EBD commonly identified in research literature: unsuccessful peer relationships, antisocial behavior, internalizing behavior, aggression, academic problems, and attention problems. These components were compared to the survey responses of 132 elementary school teachers about problem behaviors they observe in their classrooms. Overall, teacher and research perceptions of behavioral difficulties were similar. Two additional categories were identified in the analysis-disrespect and hyperactivity-suggesting additional areas in which the educator-researcher partnership could be strengthened.