Shotgun Approach Added to the Downfall
In an attempt to find a “quick fix,” to change
inappropriate behavior, some parents and teachers in the mid-80’s, used
the “sledgehammer to swat a bumblebee” approach. This dubious approach
gave fuel to those who opposed the corporal punishment concept.
Because of questionable behavior and judgment on the
part of some adults, valid concerns surfaced. Pressure came to study the
issue and look for alternatives. The lobbying increased from several
directions and eventually schools “caved in” to progressive, modern
thinking.
It didn’t take long after that for the unruly student
to figure out the system.
Those lacking self-discipline, respect for others and had a general
disregard for rules and regulations, became more aggressive.
Attempting to change their behavior with detentions and Saturday
Schools had little impact. Suspensions from school were considered “free
days,” and didn’t change anything either. Behavior for the 20% needing
firm discipline didn’t improve, in fact, it got worse. How could a child
be helped while serving an out-of-school suspension? Meanwhile, 80% of
the students trudged along doing just fine…and we know why.
Advisory groups were big back in the ‘80’s. Parents
and community groups were asked to get involved to provide input on
curriculum, discipline codes and other matters. This was all well and
good and many positive things did come from the effort. Some viewed
corporal punishment too harsh for students needing an attitude
adjustment. Discipline codes
were compromised or had options eliminated in the name of benevolence
for the poor disruptive child, who might get his feelings hurt.
The new guidelines failed to deal effectively with or
change aggressive student behavior.
As a result, some students became more aggressive or simply shut
down and refused to cooperate. To cope with no hope, many shut down with
non-performance and disruptive behavior. No one realized it at the time
but the farm was given away and nothing received in return.
Now, years later, there seems to be a mystery about what
happened, and “Where did we go wrong?”
As suspensions from school became common, parents of
those students got frustrated with their inability to control them.
As a result, a few went to the extreme attempting to change
unruly behavior with the, “Shotgun to kill a fly approach.”
Harsh measures used resulted in parents living with the fear of
being embarrassed and/or being charged by the law with physical abuse.
As more lawsuits were filed, parents and teachers become cautious and
“backed off.” A shift in power took place. With a shift in power came a
shift in control. Anyone notice who is now in control, not to be
touched?
Continued next week.
