ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at the malign nature of much of what passes for banter in schools. Many boys have a tendency to denigrate and belittle each other in an attempt to display their manly credentials. The chapter argues that certain approaches to behaviour help to develop positive relationships with boys while still holding them to the highest of expectations. They also work well with girls and other human beings. An Australian study into the relationship between behaviour and teacher stress found that a “significant predictor of teacher stress was the use of reactive behaviour management strategies” which are “used in response to disruptive behaviour”. Numerous studies have shown that although the relationship can go both ways, it is more likely to be the case that success leads to motivation. The chapter shows that the key to successful relationships between teachers and male pupils lies in an approach that motivates boys through achieving success and takes careful consideration of boys’ feelings.
