Causes and solutions to school discipline problems?

Question

This is also a powerpoint presentation for another graduate school class. I'm having difficulty trying to find information on the things that causes these problems such as family dynamics (generational poverty) and being told to have aggressive behavior the get rich quick scheme, and carrying weapons.

Answer 1

Schools are a reflection of society, so a troubled society leads to troubled schools. Most discipline problems are caused by one of four situations: student need for attention, power, revenge, or to avoid failure. Check out some of the links for "cooperative discipline". They may be of some help to you in doing your presentation. Best of luck with it.

Answer 2

Most of the discipline problems I have experienced in my classroom over the years stem from learning disabilities, self esteem issues, and just piss poor manners and attitudes. And although I agree that socioeconomic issues are a huge problem, I also feel that just because a family is poor, does not mean that a parent cannot teach a child manners and encourage education! There has to be some sort of structure at home to help teachers effectively do their jobs.

Answer 3

You know, the simplest things can cause behavioral problems in a class. Kids who don't get enough sleep. Kids who don't eat breakfast, or are otherwise nutritionally deprived. Not getting enough exercise.

I agree that family dynamics (as in having a fight with mother/father) can create problems in the classroom when the kid "passes it forward." But I don't think I agree that generational poverty causes problems. There are plenty of poor people with pride who make sure their kids get what they need to make it in the world. I think problems attributed to "generational poverty" should really be attributed to the "littler" problems like not getting enough to eat, lack of parental attention (because parents are working and can't get involved with children), and lack of sleep because of bad neighbors, bad habits, etc. Poverty can actually be a great spur to education and getting ahead. It just depends on the other circumstances.