Dive Brief:
- A new Stanford University research study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences shows a correlation between the levels of empathy and compassion from teachers and a reduction in harsh disciplinary tactics like suspensions.
- Empathetic teachers have better relationships with their students, and help reduce discipline problems, the research says, as compared with those who have what researchers call "a default punitive mindset."
- In the study, middle school teachers were encouraged to do an exercise that encouraged an empathic mindset to students who misbehaved; student discipline was subsequently reduced by half.
Dive Insight:
Studies around teacher empathy could play an important role in dismantling the school-to-prison pipeline, where minor disciplinary infractions lead to harsh punitive consequences and increase the odds of students later encountering the criminal justice system. Four out of the 10 largest public school districts in the U.S. currently have more security officers than counselors. Studies show students are five times more likely to be arrested for disorderly conduct when SROs are present.
It’s been proven that students of color and those with disabilities are disproportionately targeted. To take on the issue, schools can overhaul zero-tolerance discipline policies, seek out alternatives, and organize greater discussions about how to change underlying attitudes.
Legislative solutions also exist. Some states are now considering changes to laws criminalizing offenses that aren't always considered crimes when committed away from school grounds. South Carolina, Massachusetts and Virginia are among those with reform legislation proposals.