The concept of discipline is often mistaken for the term punishment. But the punishment and the discipline, have very involve very differnt methods of attitudes and actions.
| Punishment | Discipline |
| Emphasizes what a child should not do | Emphasizes what a child should do. |
| Is a one time occurrence. | Is an ongoing process. |
| Insists on obedience. | Sets and example to follow. |
| Undermines independence | Leads to self-control |
| Is an adult release and about their power. It is also often about displaced anger. This is when adults are angry about something else but take their anger out on children. | Helps children change. |
| Is negative | Is positive |
| Makes children behave | Accepts child’s need to assert self |
| Defeats self esteem | Encourages self esteem |
| Condemns misbehavior | Encourages self disciplined behavior. |
[1]
[1] Alternatives to Corporal Punishment: The Learning Experience. A Practical Guide for Educators to Develop and Maintain a Culture of Discipline, Dignity, and Respect in the Classroom. South African Department of Education.