Answer to Question #298765 in Psychology for IMMAN5

Question

There are many individuals who view punishment (both positive and negative) as a necessary teaching method. This can vary from one culture to another as well as from one individual to the next. What are your views on using punishment in order to reduce unwanted behaviors? In what situations is it OK, and in what situations should it be discouraged? Provide examples and references, if appropriate.

Answer 1

Punishment according to me is a necessary teaching method which is used to correct or contain bad behaviors. It instills fear in pupils and students and they thus fear doing a certain vice since they know they will be thoroughly punished.

Punishment is ok in situations where it's intended purpose is accomplished. For example if students are making noise and they are made to clean the compound, next time they wouldn't make noise.

Punishment is discouraged in cases where it is causing bodily harm to those punished or when it is not accomplishing the intended purpose. For example, if a noise make is made to run and he or she suffers breathing problems, punishment is not recommended and another way to correct the behavior should be adopted.