ABSTRACT
Choice in behavior management is less about offering multiple options and more about informing students of the expectation or rule and the consequence for not following it. By presenting your expectations for a change in student behavior and the result of not changing, you place the responsibility for a decision to change (or not) with the student. Options in a disciplining situation empower students; and, remember, the desire for power is often behind many misbehaviors (Dreikurs, Cassel, & Ferguson, 2004). Also see Attention. Most people like to feel they are in control, and students are no different. Therefore, when possible, give the student two choices—both of which work for you as well. This choice gives the student the locus of control.
