Drew and Joe Are Two Student-Athletes on the High School

Drew and Joe are two student-athletes on the high school wrestling team. They are very competitive, not only with their opponents during matches but also with one another. Although you (the coach) have not actually witnessed any serious problems between them, you were told by a couple of the other students on the team that when practice is over and they are changing clothes in the locker room, Drew and Joe will argue and even degrade one another with offensive name calling. What is the best way to intervene in this situation?

A) Speak to the entire team and explain that it is unacceptable for anyone to engage in such behaviors. You might also set up a contingency management plan using a token economy system to reduce inappropriate behaviors (e.g., arguments) while increasing desirable behaviors (e.g., showing enthusiasm and team spirit in cheering for a teammate) . In addition, use the talking bench strategy with Drew and Joe to help them resolve their personal conflict.
B) Use a verbal reprimand and punish the entire team with running extra laps after practice.
C) Use negative reinforcement to decrease the inappropriate behaviors of the two student-athletes involved; also, you should openly praise those students who told you about this situation.
D) Speak to Drew and Joe in private and explain to them that their behaviors are unacceptable; also draft a behavioral contract for these two students to agree on and have them sign the contract with the understanding that they are prohibited from entering the locker room.