https://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/forum/forum-ensure-discipline-is-fair-consistent-and-corrective-rather-than-punitive
Forum: Ensure discipline is fair, consistent and corrective rather than punitive
Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox
The Ministry of Education (MOE) has announced several measures which schools may implement to discipline students who misbehave or break rules of conduct (Caning, suspension among standardised disciplinary actions against school bullies, April 16).
As a psychologist who has been involved in managing students presenting with misbehaviour in schools and at home, I would like to share some observations on effective discipline.
Misbehaviour is often a manifestation of a student’s emotional state, arising from factors such as upbringing, home environment and peer influence. Several principles should be considered to achieve positive outcomes and minimise recidivism.
First, behaviour is influenced by reward and punishment through basic conditioning principles. A disciplinary action such as suspension or detention may make one student feel ashamed, but may inadvertently reward another who enjoys the attention or absence from class.
Second, the severity and type of punishment must be proportionate to the nature of the misconduct. Excessive punishment for minor offences may lead to resentment and increased defiance rather than behavioural improvement.
Third, accurate assessment is essential. Some students who appear recalcitrant may have underlying conditions such as conduct disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and may require professional intervention rather than punitive measures.
Fourth, consistency in discipline among teachers is crucial. Inconsistent enforcement of rules can undermine discipline and encourage further misconduct. The number of problematic students reported may depend on how lax or stern the teacher is. Students and parents must also be informed of the punishments that will be meted out for various types of misconduct. Where appropriate, timely counselling should be provided to students and parents.
Top stories
Explore top stories from all sections in one place
Ultimately, both the home and school environments play a major role in shaping students’ behaviour. Parents and schools must work closely together to ensure that discipline is fair, consistent and corrective rather than merely punitive. A holistic, balanced and informed approach will better support students in developing responsible behaviour.
Lim Chong Leong
Comments
Post a Comment