Overview
This lecture covers Rudolph Dreikurs' social discipline model, focusing on his theories about the motivations behind children's behavior and effective classroom management strategies.
Rudolph Dreikurs: Background
- Rudolph Dreikurs was an Austrian psychiatrist and educator born in 1897 and died in 1972.
- He founded and was the medical director of the Community Child Guidance Center of Chicago.
Social Discipline Model
- Dreikurs believed all humans are social beings and all behavior is purposeful.
- He stated that behavior, including misbehavior, is motivated by the need for social approval.
- Behaviors are guided by the individual's goals, not just reactions to external forces.
Four Goals of Misbehavior
- Dreikurs identified four goals that motivate children's behavior: attention, power/control, revenge, and helplessness/inadequacy.
- If a teacher feels annoyed, the child seeks attention.
- If a teacher feels beaten or intimidated, the child seeks power/control.
- If a teacher feels hurt, the child seeks revenge.
- If a teacher feels incapable, the child seeks helplessness or inadequacy.
Discipline Strategies
- Dreikurs opposed the use of punishment, reinforcement, or praise.
- He advocated for natural or logical consequences and encouragement as effective discipline techniques.
Praise vs. Encouragement
- Praise is a reward for achievement and can be patronizing, stimulating competition and selfishness.
- Encouragement focuses on effort, gives positive feedback, and motivates students to keep trying even if unsuccessful.
- Encouragement matches students’ need for approval in a healthy way.
Application in the Classroom
- Teachers should consider students' intentions and background when addressing misbehavior.
- Not all behaviors should be dealt with in the same way; understanding motivations helps tailor interventions.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Social Discipline Model — A theory that all behavior is purposeful and socially motivated.
- Natural Consequences — Outcomes that occur naturally as a result of behavior.
- Logical Consequences — Outcomes that are logically related to the behavior and help students learn from their actions.
- Encouragement — Feedback focused on effort rather than achievement to promote continued effort.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Reflect on current classroom management techniques.
- Practice using encouragement and logical consequences instead of praise or punishment.