ERIC Number: EJ963068
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2012
Pages: 13
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1538-8220
EISSN: N/A
Both Suspension and Alternatives Work, Depending on One's Aim
Bear, George G.
Journal of School Violence, v11 n2 p174-186 2012
In this commentary on the special series, I argue that whereas a zero-tolerance approach to school discipline is "something stupid" (Kauffman & Brigham, 2000) the use of suspension might not be. Despite its limitations, suspension and other forms of punishment serve as effective deterrents of behavior problems for most children, especially when they are combined with positive and proactive alternatives to suspension. Too often, advocates of those alternatives fail to recognize why suspension is valued by educators, while also making the mistake of advocating for alternatives that have their own limitations and share the same aim of suspension--obedience and compliance to adults and rules. Typically, those alternatives are less effective and efficient than suspension in achieving that aim. Thus, educators reject them. Instead of advocating for the elimination of the use of suspension, it might be wiser for researchers to advocate for a combination of evidence-based techniques (both positive and punitive) that not only prevent and reduce behavior problems but also foster self-discipline and a positive school climate.
Descriptors: Punishment, Behavior Problems, Suspension, School Culture, Zero Tolerance Policy, Prevention, Self Control, Educational Research
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Opinion Papers
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A