Assertive discipline is an inappropriate classroom management method. To determine the necessary nature and amount of classroom control, analysis of the aims of education and of the growing body of child development and social psychology theories and research is necessary. (CJ)

This article offers advice to the classroom teacher for dealing with a child subject to explosive temper tantrums. It discusses why such outbursts may occur; gives a sequence for controlling the tantrum and calming the child; and considers long-term methods for helping the child curb anger and aggression. (SJL)

An alternative educational program that is highly structured, closely supervised, and appropriately staffed is proposed for the chronic disruptive student. (Author/MLF)

Third and fifth graders (n=45) were asked about teacher-executed punishments for moral infractions (e.g., stealing) and conventional misbehavior (e.g., gumchewing). Children perceived presentation with unpleasant stimuli as more frequent and effective than removal of privileges. Removal punishments were perceived as more effective for moral…

This article describes an existing behavior policy of a mixed comprehensive school in Hertfordshire, England. It stresses the need to involve all staff and pupils in development of a behavior policy, the need for regular reviews of the policy, training of new staff, the impact of insufficient differentiation, and the need for inclusion of pupils…

Discusses how teachers can deal with student misbehavior by ignoring negative behavior that is motivated by a desire for attention. Practical techniques are described for pinpointing attention seekers, enlisting classmates to deal with misbehaving students, ignoring misbehavior, and distinguishing behavior that responds to this technique from…

Assessed factors contributing to 152 preservice teachers' choice of a helping or restrictive strategy to manage social immaturity and social defiance behavior among children. Regression analyses indicated that the costs of problem behavior significantly predicted the type of strategy the teachers would choose. (Author/TE)

Explains proper and improper interpretations of the author's assertive discipline program. Teachers need to communicate clear rules for the classroom, teach students how to follow them, employ positive reinforcement, and use firm and consistent negative consequences for rule-breakers as a last resort. Includes five references. (MLH)

Describes a straightforward, workable strategy that involves a teacher checklist and short individual or student group conferences, with the goal of academic or behavioral improvements. Teachers can easily tick off marks on the checklist and return the form to the counselor; additionally, students can easily understand the format of the checklist.…

Notes that while hitting-aggressive behavior is probably the greatest single behavior concern of teachers, children can be taught appropriate behavior for the classroom. Offers tips for dealing with: roughhousing; existing problems; grabbing toys; and war games, guns, or violent play. Suggests allowing children the choice of an alternative…

Although humor may be a key element in successful programs, little sophistication has been shown in understanding the various roles humor may play in helping troubled students. This report provides specific instances and practical examples of how humor might be used to provide education for troubled students. Draws on anecdotes and scenarios…

Research on resilience suggests that a sense of humor helps to stress-proof children in conflict. Reports on a workshop for educators and youth workers convened to explore ways humor is being used to foster positive development and resilience with troubled youth. Describes applications of humor front-line professionals report as useful in their…

Presents the 1985 resolution of the Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) for participation in the interdisciplinary effort to ban corporal punishment. Discusses distinctions between discipline and child abuse. Reports medical and psychological effects of physical punishment, and relationships between school corporal punishment…

Reviews current legal interpretations regarding discipline of handicapped students. Proposes a model for fostering compliance with legal mandates when considering disciplinary procedures for such students. Principals should employ behavior management options (such as time-out techniques, use of school counseling and social workers, in-school…

The Discipline Option Form successfully combines reduced disciplinary consequences with a positive learning experience. The principal helps the student select appropriate topics for improvement and discusses them during the initial office visit. The student writes a short improvement plan and returns the form with the parent's signature.…