Disciplinary behaviour management strategies in schools and their impact on student psychosocial outcomes: A systematic review.

Background: Disciplinary behaviour management strategies are implemented in schools to manage pupil behaviour. There is limited evidence of their intended impact on behaviour but there is growing concern around the potential negative impacts on pupil wellbeing.

Methods: We carried out a systematic review to examine the impact of these strategies on psychosocial outcomes in pupils (PROSPERO Registration: CRD42021285427). We searched multiple sources and double-screened titles, abstracts, and full texts. Data extraction and risk of bias assessment were done by one reviewer and checked by another. Results were narratively synthesised.

Results: We included 14 studies, from 5375 citations, assessing temporary suspension (n=10), verbal reprimand (n=2), and mixed strategies (n=2). Depression was the most common outcome (n=7), followed by academic grades (n=4) and behaviour in class (n=4). All except one study were at high risk of bias. We found a recurring pattern in the evidence of disciplinary strategies associated with poor mental wellbeing and behaviour in pupils. The effect on academic attainment was unclear.

Conclusions: Disciplinary behaviour management strategies may have negative impact on pupil mental wellbeing and class behaviour. These important consequences should be assessed in better designed studies before these strategies are implemented.