Abstract

The purpose of this study is to know the viewpoints of teachers and pupils in UNRWA schools in Jordan towards punishment. A specially designed questionnaire was given to (862) pupils and (315) teachers from a random sample taken from five areas in Jordan. The Questionnaire consists of (34) items covering the following five domains: causes, aims, kinds, consequences of punishment as well as alternative and attitudes to punishment. The data obtained from the questionnaire were subjected to x2 (chi square) for the purpose to determining significant differences – in the above domains- between the teachers and pupils. The present study found significant differences between qualified and unqualified teachers in using punishment. The first group used punishment more than the second group. This was attributed to the educational skills of the qualified teachers. The study found that male teachers used punishment for unsatisfactory behavior, but female teachers used punishment for lack of achievement. The finding and their implications for training and counselling teachers are discussed.