Three Styles of Classroom Discipline

Classroom discipline is so important to a teacher. If her class is not well managed, her students cannot learn effectively. Every teacher struggles to find the perfect discipline style, but one style does work better than another. Which of the following three styles is best for children?

The first style of discipline is the authoritarian style. This teacher yells a lot, telling kids that they are the boss, and in essence degrading the child. Children in this type of classroom often times do well, but aren't taught to monitor their own behavior. They behave because they are suppose to. The authoritarian leader tells them what to do. The authoritarian teacher, often times tell rather than politely asks students.

The second style of discipline is the dictator style. In this style of classroom discipline, the teacher goes beyond being boss. He is the ultimate ruler, and hardly every listens to the children in his classroom. He yells, demeans, and demands respect, but gives none in return. Research shows that students in this type of classroom often lack self discipline, and complete assignments and are behaved out of fear. Recently worked with a teacher who used this style of discipline. After watching the children almost in tears, I anonymously went to administration and asked if they could politely speak to this teacher and perhaps offer training on how to properly manage a classroom.

The third style of discipline is the authoritative style. This teacher explains rules, tells the students what consequences and, explains any rules not understood. This teacher does not mind to model what she expects. You will often hear thank you, and your welcome in this classroom. The teacher tries to recognize positive behavior, and will often call a student aside to address improper behavior. This way, the student does not receive class attention, and they receive respect from the teacher. This type of teacher does not allow rules to be violated. Simple sticks by her discipline plan and promptly follows through on any recourse or consequences. Administrators find that the highest scoring students often come from an authoritative style classroom.

This teacher, may not have the quietest classroom, but her students are respectful, are in control of their own behavior, are treated with respect, and the overall atmosphere of the classroom is more pleasant.This would be a classroom that you would be comfortable and welcome in. Not only can these three styles of classroom discipline be practiced by teachers, by the same is true for disciplining at home. Children should understand the rules, consequences, and above all, have adult who model those expectations. Also, respecting the child by not yelling or demeaning is extremely important. . Children are more apt to do as asked if they feel they are respected as a person. As a parent, I tried to use this type of discipline in my home.

Teacher and parents can both sign up for classes in discipline. Some courses are called authoritative discipline, but the keyword now is positive behavior support, or positive classroom discipline. The goal is to teach the child proper rules, consequences, and respect for themselves and others.