Parents are a vital source of support for our schools. School personnel interact with parents on a daily basis and fortunately, most of these interactions are pleasant and helpful, keeping students' needs in mind. Instances of parental aggression, however, do occur. Volatile or confrontational parents present many unique challenges for educators who have long overlooked this important issue. This book digs deeply into the problem of parental aggression, specifying strategies for a broad audience of educators. The guide is organized into three modules: (1) An introductory examination of parental aggression and confrontation; (2) An in-depth explanation of the RAID approach and its mechanics; and (3) Step-by-step instructions for facilitating the RAID approach in any academic setting. Comprehensive in scope, the RAID approach targets four steps to working successfully with difficult parents: (1) Recognize the potential for a volatile encounter; (2) Assess your ability to deal effectively with the situation; (3) Identify your advantages; and (4) Diffuse the parent's aggression during the initial approach and greeting. This effective, proven approach is based on real professionals' mistakes and successes. Specially featured scenarios and anecdotes depict confrontational situations experienced by school personnel, including "from the trenches" interviews with educators who have successfully implemented the RAID approach in their schools. A facilitator's guide is also included for practical implementation of the RAID approach in the academic setting. Following an introduction, this guide is divided into three parts. Part I, Parental Aggression Towards School Personnel, presents: (1) A Genuine Concern for School Personnel; (2) The Reactive Nature of Education; and (3) Confrontational Parents and Your Colleagues. Part II, An Approach to Address Parental Aggression, continues with: (4) The RAID Approach; (5) RAID Step One: Recognizing the Potential for a Volatile Encounter; (6) RAID Step Two: Assessing Your Ability to Emotionally Handle the Situation; (7) RAID Step Three: Identifying Your Advantages; (8) RAID Step Four: Diffusing Anger During the Initial Approach and Greeting; and (9) Putting the RAID Approach to Work. Part III: Issues, Questions, and Installation, concludes with: (10) The Worst-Case Scenario ... and After; and (11) Four Great Questions. The following sections are also included: (1) Resource A: Traumatic Stress Reactions Questionnaire; (2) References; (3) Facilitator's Guide; (4) Who Should Use This Guide?; (5) Who Should Receive a "RAID Approach" In-Service?; (6) When Should the RAID Approach Be Installed?; (7) How This Guide Is Organized; and (8) What Materials Are Necessary? This guide concludes with: three modules; nine overheads; and an index.