The definition of discipline provided by the Webster dictionary involves training to ensure proper behavior and the practice of teaching and enforcing acceptable patterns of behavior. This definition does not endorse physical punishment or harsh strategies to achieve desired behavior. Instead, children’s discipline should be positive, aiming to encourage appropriate conduct rather than serving as reprimand or physical punishment. Its purpose is to assist in teaching and guiding children to act properly according to established rules. It’s important to note that everyone interprets discipline differently and how it should be applied appropriately. “Discipline” comes from “Disciple,” which refers to a follower of a teacher (Meyer).
In terms of education, teachers prioritize examples and guidance over punishment. They believe in teaching appropriate behaviors and making students aware of the natural consequences that arise from their actions. According to Tsarap, the prevailing strategies for teaching behavior contradict our supposed intention of instilling self-discipline and proper conduct in children, as they actually rely on manipulation and control. Unfortunately, some individuals still perceive physical discipline and threats as the sole means to elicit desired responses or actions from children.
Many people who lack education and experience believe that discipline is the only solution for children’s misbehavior. It is important to consistently provide discipline, similar to guidance, when children exhibit undesirable behavior. Each action should have a corresponding consequence so that children understand the outcomes of their actions, such as hitting or misbehaving. This understanding helps build trust between children and their parents or authority figures while also helping them understand the expectations set for them. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics Policy Statement on discipline, parents should tailor their disciplinary approaches based on the child’s developmental capabilities. Parents must recognize that children perceive things differently at different ages and adjust their expectations accordingly. The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes that 3-year-olds are expected to achieve more compared to 1-year-olds.
Parents must avoid reacting negatively to their child’s behavior, even when feeling distressed, disappointed, or angry. If expectations are too high and not met, it can lead to increased disappointment and negativity towards the child. Remember that discipline is meant to guide children in a positive way and help them become obedient and well-rounded individuals.
According to Knife and Palomino, the conduct of children’s proboscis is affected by parental discipline and affection. The study revealed that increased positive affect and discipline from parents resulted in heightened proboscis behavior in children. Conversely, greater negative affect and discipline from parents led to reduced proboscis behavior in children. Additionally, Knife and Palomino noted the influence of parental discipline methods on children’s attitudes and approaches to life.
According to Knife and Palomino, disciplinary practices that involve reasoning are more effective in increasing children’s awareness of the consequences of their behavior and promoting adaptive behavior. When children are guided using fair and educational methods instead of negative and aggressive tendencies, the desired result is more likely to be achieved. Additionally, negative discipline can have a paralyzing effect on children as they mature and can hinder their future development. If an authority figure displays undesirable and hostile behavior while disciplining a child, the intended effect may be overshadowed by fear and further negative behavior.
Based on my experience working with children, I have noticed that many young kids tend to imitate their parents and/or authority figures. This has made me realize that treating students with respect and setting a positive example is more effective in achieving the desired behavior. It is important to acknowledge that no child is perfect, as we all make mistakes at some point in our lives. Instead of resorting to spanking or scolding, which only diminishes a person and fails to provide moral guidance, it is better to discipline a child through education and appropriate consequences. This approach helps them understand what is expected of them and motivates them to avoid undesirable behavior in the future.
Discipline is an important tool for guiding children to live within the boundaries of laws and rules. By demonstrating appropriate behavior and setting firm yet loving boundaries, parents establish a foundation for their child to make positive choices. Effective child discipline aims to prevent behavioral issues and minimize the need for punishment. When faced with new or undesirable behaviors, parents often feel inexperienced and unsure about what constitutes acceptable and effective discipline. The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes three essential components for an effective disciplinary system: fostering positive parent-child relationships, proactively teaching desired behaviors, and implementing reactive strategies to reduce undesired behaviors. These principles align with the definition of discipline as training for correct conduct.
Clinical Psychologist Shuffle Tsarap acknowledges that many parents struggle when it comes to caring for and disciplining their children. In her conversations with parents, she encourages them to examine the underlying meaning behind their discussions on “discipline,” prompting them to analyze the implicit message conveyed in their statements.
Many parents express a desire to “control” their children or admit to being angry with them and wanting to make them pay for it. They may also feel frustrated because they are unable to change their children’s behavior. According to Tsarap, these emotions contribute to the negative consequences of disciplinary strategies with our children. Tsarap engages in conversations with bewildered and frustrated parents, helping them realize that the methods they use are ineffective and have negative effects.
Opponents of alternative disciplinary methods argue that control, physical punishment (spanking), and manipulation are the only effective ways to discipline children. They claim that spanking, used as a last resort, effectively sends a message and has a lasting impact on the child’s behavior.
However, there is a mother and author who believes in providing eight reasons why spanking your child is necessary. These reasons include the desire for love, respect, teaching good decision-making skills, instilling self-control and accountability, setting standards, recognizing strength rather than weakness, and its overall effectiveness.
Essentially, she believes that corporal punishment plays an essential role in teaching children right from wrong, showing them love and respect, and raising them to become resilient individuals.
Using physical force or spanking as a form of discipline imparts the message to children that it is acceptable to resort to physical consequences in any situation, which is an undesirable outcome. Some argue that spanking falls under corporal punishment, where intentional pain is inflicted on the body to regulate behavior. Actions like slapping, hitting with objects, pinching, shaking, or imposing prolonged standing periods on a child are included in this category (Spanking). Instead of promoting violence, parents should maintain composure and employ positive and constructive methods of disciplining their child. Every parent desires their children’s happiness, respect from others, and success as well-behaved adults. No one wants to raise an indulged child. The fear of being judged or ridiculed can influence parents’ choices regarding disciplinary measures for their children. Frequently, parents take into account their own upbringing and childhood experiences when determining appropriate disciplinary approaches.
Parents prefer to remain complacent and not educate themselves or explore innovative methods. Discipline should not involve physical punishment or expressing anger towards children; it should be about controlling their behavior. According to Meyer, discipline should focus on the behavior rather than the child’s disappointment. Communication, self-esteem, and confidence are essential elements that accompany discipline. It is possible to effectively discipline a child without resorting to physical or corporal punishment.
