When thinking of discipline, it is important to keep in mind that it has two major aims: (1) managing behavior and (2) developing self-discipline (Bear, 2020). The first aim is more short-term than the second and primarily concerns practices for preventing and correcting misbehavior. Those practices include monitoring children’s behavior, developing and maintaining a close and supportive relationship, praising and rewarding desired behavior, and correcting undesired behavior. The second aim—developing self-discipline—is more long-term. Self-discipline refers to self-regulation or self-control: children inhibiting misbehavior willingly, not grudgingly and out of fear of punishment, and taking responsibility for their actions. Helping children develop self-discipline includes teaching empathy, responsible decision making, and emotional regulation. Perhaps the most important indicator of child-rearing success, and particularly with respect to the long-term goal of developing self-discipline, is how children act when adults are not present.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

George Bear, PhD, is a professor emeritus of school psychology at the University of Delaware. He has written or edited 12 books and over 100 journal articles and book chapters focusing primarily on children’s moral development, school discipline, and school climate. His most recent book, for teachers and parents, is Lying, Cheating, Bullying, and Narcissism. He is a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award of the National Association of School Psychologists. 

This NASP Laminated Guide is an updated version of a resource from Helping Handouts: Supporting Students at School and Home, an online digital publication featuring more than 80 handouts for educators and caregivers. To learn more about Helping Handouts, visit https://apps.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/book-store.aspx. 

ISBN: 978-0932955-42-5

This 6-page, laminated quick-reference guide is must for any School Psychologist or educator. This guide includes information on:

• Basic Considerations for Preventing and Correcting Misbehavior While Also Developing Self-Discipline
• Recommendations
• Recommended Resources