The topic for this research paper is timeout in schools. The purpose of this study was to investigate timeout as a behavioral technique as it is applied to the school setting, and provide an overview of the information found in the literature regarding procedure, misuse, legal standards, and effectiveness. Sources used include scholastic journals and papers written by professionals or relevant organizations. Conclusions point out that timeout is a widespread discipline technique used in schools with children of all ages. It is found to increase self control, but is not directly associated with increased academic achievement. Disadvantages of timeout include possible misuse and abuse or ineffectiveness.
The purpose of this research paper is to provide an overview of the behavioral technique, timeout, as it is applied to the school setting. This presentation will include a review of the literature and a conclusion regarding the material presented.
This review of the literature begins with an introduction to timeout with a discussion of what it is, how long it should last, when it is used, and whether it can be harmful. Next the review will cover misuse of timeout, standards and legal issues, timeout examples and evaluation, and effective use of timeout.
Timeout is a behavioral technique that allows a child to take distance from a given situation. Removing the self from an incident allows for adults and children to step back, gain self control, and rest the emotions. Children, particularly young children, need to be removed from an emotionally charged situation to gain this control. In fact any time that a child is involved in a situation that is emotionally or physically overwhelming, the child may need timeout (Ucci, 1998, p. 2).
Ucci further points out that there are particular situations in which a teacher should expect a child to react and need timeout. Strange situations, times when children are asked to sha...