Lion's Roar Spotlight Series: Promoting Positive Behaviour

At the British School Manila, we are grateful for the opportunity to partner with parents to create a safe, supportive environment that helps students to flourish. As part of this commitment, we regularly engage in professional learning, reflecting on best practice in safeguarding and wellbeing.

One area of discussion at the most recent FOBISIA Safeguarding and Pastoral Care Conference was the use of physical discipline in the home —  a topic that is both sensitive and complex. 

Whilst we recognise that approaches to discipline are shaped by generational experience and cultural beliefs, it is also important to highlight what current research tells us about the long-term impact of physical forms of discipline.

Understanding the Impact of Physical Discipline 

Many adults were raised in environments where physical discipline was a common and accepted form of correction. However, decades of research tell us that such practices can have unintended consequences. These may include increased anxiety, reduced self-esteem, difficulties managing emotions or academic disengagement.

Children who experience physical punishment may comply in the short term, but often do so out of fear, rather than understanding. Over time, this can impact their ability to trust adults, express their emotions appropriately, or develop positive self-worth.

Commitment to Children’s Rights

The Philippines is a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC)—a treaty that recognises the rights of all children to be protected from all forms of violence, including physical punishment. This commitment reinforces the idea that discipline can and should be rooted in dignity, respect, and education rather than fear or harm.

Here at school, we are aligned with this perspective, supporting the use of positive, constructive discipline strategies that not only promote positive behaviour but also build children’s emotional strength and independence.

Positive and Constructive Approaches

Thankfully, there are many non-physical, effective approaches to discipline that are supported by research:

• Setting Clear Expectations: Letting children and young people know what is expected—calmly and consistently—helps them feel safe and confident.  
• Reinforcing Positive Behaviour: Catching children “doing the right thing” and offering praise can be more powerful than correction.  
• Using Natural and Logical Consequences: When appropriate, allow children to experience the consequences of their actions or poor choices, helping them reflect on ‘what went wrong’ and the things that may need to change moving forward.
• Encouraging Reflection: Taking time to pause and talk helps children understand their behaviour and how it affects others.  
• Modelling Respectful Behaviour: Children learn most by watching us, their adults. Our tone, patience, and problem-solving skills are powerful teaching tools.  

Working Together 

At BSM, we recognise that discipline is essential for children and young people. Finding the best fit for your child and family isn’t always easy.

Parents may like to explore the resources linked below. Alternatively, our school guidance counsellors are always happy to chat  - you are very welcome to reach out to arrange an appointment. 

Roisin Pearson 

Designated Safeguarding Lead
British School Manila

^Resources:

• ^{University of California Positive Parenting}
• ^{The Whole Brain Child, Dan Siegel}
• ^{Yale Online: Antecedents, Behaviour & Consequences}