Which of the following actions should a school counselor take first to assess a student's behavior issues?

Interviewing the student is the most effective first step in assessing a student's behavior issues because it allows the counselor to gather direct insights and perspectives from the individual experiencing the challenges. Engaging with the student provides an opportunity for them to express their feelings, thoughts, and experiences in their own words. This direct communication can reveal underlying issues, motivations, or external factors contributing to their behavior, which might not be apparent through other means.

While involvement from parents and teachers can be valuable in developing a comprehensive understanding of the situation, they typically offer secondary perspectives. Consulting with the teacher can yield information about the student's behavior in the classroom context, and meeting with parents can provide insights about home dynamics and support systems. However, these actions may introduce biases or interpretations that do not fully capture the student's personal experience.

Additionally, conducting group counseling sessions does not focus on the individual behavior issues at hand and may not allow for the personalized attention needed to effectively assess and understand the specific situation of the student. Thus, beginning with an interview ensures a student-centered approach where the counselor can build rapport and create a safe space for the student to share. This foundational understanding is critical for effective problem-solving and intervention planning.