Answer: Research Question: Are punishments really necessary?
Explanation:
Are Punishments Necessary?
Punishments are often confused with discipline, and while the latter is the most exhausting part of parenthood, the prior leads to detrimental effects. Before answering the research question, the paper will explore the differences between the two words to show why punishments should be avoided and used when extremely necessary.
Difference between Discipline and Punishment
Discipline teaches individuals to behave according to societal norms, while punishment inflicts suffering for the misbehavior, hoping to change future conduct. Secondly, discipline requires critical thinking to learn new and acceptable behavior, while punishment invokes fear towards making mistakes. Additionally, discipline puts the individual in control of making correct decisions, while penalty puts the punisher in charge of the outcome of the wrongdoer’s decisions. Lastly, discipline assumes the behavior is a communication channel, while punishment takes conduct as only about “wrong” and “right.”
Reasons for Avoiding Punishment
Punishment should be avoided because it handles the situation at the moment. The hope is correcting future behavior, but it does not find the cause of the behavior and introduces skills to take it better in the future. Secondly, slip-ups are part of life, but punishments view them defensively by imposing penalties to “pay for mistakes.” Thirdly, correcting wrongdoings should not be under supervision. It should come naturally through self-control and self-regulation. Finally, assuming wrong and proper behavior depicts a closed-minded way of thinking because individuals may misbehave for many reasons, including attracting attention. Punishments limit expression.
Effective Discipline Approaches
Many might ask, how can behavior be regulated if there are no punishments? Some practical discipline approaches that might help guide future conduct include setting limits. Having clear and consistent rules, explained in age-appropriate terms, ensures the target group observes acceptable behavior. Secondly, giving consequences firmly and calmly explains the consequences of breaking regulations. Finally, recognizing good behavior shows appreciation. It is essential to be specific using words such as, “you did well putting the plates away.”
