ABSTRACT
All aspects of our lives require us to operate within rules or boundaries of some sort,
whether self-imposed or determined by others. Some rules seem clear, rational and
reasonable – others seem petty and irritating. It is not uncommon to hear people
grumbling about not being allowed to do what they want, even though it is (to them)
perfectly fair and reasonable
Rules can be interpreted literally or in spirit, so care has to be taken with wording to
avoid unintended consequences. You will probably be aware of the minute attention to
detail some adolescents have when it comes to the interpretation of school rules, in
respect of what constitutes ‘appropriate footwear’ and ‘jewellery’, or how ‘long’ a skirt
really is; an unwary teacher can be drawn into a protracted discussion of these details.
