A critical evaluation of the role of punishment in the classroom

Exploring the role of punishment in modern education, the essay highlights its prevalence and contrasts it with effective methods like early intervention to prevent issues such as drug use. It emphasizes the importance of teacher behavior and classroom quality, advocating for smaller classes and engaging materials to reduce stress. Drawing on developmental theory, particularly Galperin's, it argues against punishment, asserting that it disrupts harmonious learning. The piece underscores that teachers should not act as judges, aligning educational practices with legal and ethical standards.