Abstract

This study explored the dimensions and parameters of three methods of discipline used at a public middle school located in western Canada: out-of-school suspensions, in-school suspensions, and the restorative justice program. Eighteen students, six in each method of discipline, were interviewed about their perceptions and opinions in order to acquire a well-developed understanding of each method of discipline and its effects on middle school students. A variety of participants were included both in the study and within each smaller group. This provided depth when describing the effects of each method of discipline, as students interacted with the method of discipline and the context which resulted in unique short-term effects. After looking at the range of effects of different methods of discipline on middle school students, one style of discipline emerged as being more effective with more types of students and in more kinds of situations.