Research into criminal activity in United States schools has provided evidence that helps explain students' and teachers' attitudes toward schools. Information on changes in disciplinary conditions is incomplete but suggests that discipline continues to be a major problem severely limiting educational efforts and that educators must take more…

Reports on a study of 24 Australian secondary teachers before and after an inservice program on the whole-school approach to discipline. Finds that higher principled teachers provided more perspective and guidance than those in the low moral judgment group. Recommends more joint decision making by teachers in developing a school's discipline…

Students who respond to the ludicrous environments of schooling with behaviors and demeanor that do not fit school criteria frequently are given a medical label and drug treatment. The fact that Ritalin is given to 2.8% of all American children reflects a "treatment philosophy" in which professionals define problems and prescribe…

Recent research on questions relating to discipline and students at the middle-grade level offers new ideas on student needs, school environments, and disciplining techniques. A review of the literature yields the following related points: (1) while the early adolescent years are particularly vulnerable to disruption, schools can create…

Both educators and the public are becoming increasingly alarmed by the magnitude of school discipline problems. Surveys of secondary schools reveal increasing incidences of rioting, arson, violence, and property damage. The increase of discipline problems has been linked to the influence of college disruptions, violence on television, the civil…

Notes the harm caused by exaggerated reports of violence in schools, clarifies the distinction between violence and discipline problems, provides a perspective on the actual extent of these problems, describes factors encouraging good school discipline, and suggests reasonable approaches for governments and schools to take. (PGD)

Researchers analyzed changes in the self-confidence levels of beginning teachers, which occurred during their first term of full-time teaching. Effects of sex differences, discipline attitudes, idealism, and other variables were explored. Students assigned to lower grade levels experienced more problems with confidence about classroom management…

A study assessed the status of discipline and corporal punishment in Indiana's public junior high and high schools. Information is reported concerning the formation of discipline policy, methods of informing students of rules, school policy on various discipline problems, and the use of corporal punishment. (PP)

In their efforts to reduce school violence and student misbehavior, too often schools and school authorities contribute to the potential for violence by sanctioning or ignoring practices that victimize children. Reviews concerns pertaining to this issue. Argues that school psychologists should become more involved in prevention programs and in the…

This report offers selected readings and suggestions from the literature aimed at reducing violence and vandalism in the Newark Public Schools. Section one lists facts that indicate the type and degree of problems affecting the school system. The second section presents highlights of a report and recommendations made by the Task Force on Reducing…

This monograph addresses some common questions about academic dishonesty in higher education and reviews issues affecting these institutions in light of existing research. The extent of academic dishonesty and the perception that it is increasing is examined. Three studies cited indicate that cheating is chronic and that 60 to 75 percent of…

Discipline is identified as a major issue affecting schools, especially in urban settings. This study uses a transformative screen, Student Voice, to legitimize the perceptions of students from groups of color regarding disciplinary action experienced or witnessed. The research was guided by three questions: What factors influence student/teacher…

Background for this monograph comes from a study of in-school suspension programs conducted in schools in North Carolina. Chapter 1 focuses on the effectively disciplined school in terms of a total school perspective and the characteristics of a well-disciplined school. Chapter 2 addresses three categories of administrative discipline strategies:…

Presents an analysis of discipline referral data collected in an urban middle school and discusses the impact in terms of time and resources devoted to discipline at the expense of learning. The article describes a strategic plan formulated by middle school faculty and administration, as well as other student-centered techniques, in creating more…

Concerned with organizational approaches to student behavior, this paper first describes the key elements of organizational structure and leadership. These include articulation of organizational goals, such as ensuring an orderly environment conducive to learning and cultivating responsible student behavior and good character. The school's control…