Both faculty and students at many colleges and universities report numerous incidents of disruptive and uncivil behaviour. However, studies show that faculty are often reluctant to confront these situations, or they feel ill-equipped to intervene. If the behaviour escalates, a disproportionate amount of time and effort can be spent trying to manage a volatile classroom environment, generating a negative experience for both faculty and students. This article presents strategies for preventing and managing disruptive behaviour in the college classroom. Drawing from theory and research in communication and group dynamics, specific methods for intervening are outlined.