Empathy Brings New Dynamics to School Discipline

Empathy for School Discipline: How UAE Teachers Help Students

Discussions around school discipline are often sensitive and contentious worldwide. However, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the approach has radically shifted in recent years. Instead of traditional strict punishments, the focus is now on understanding, self-reflection, and emotional support. This change is particularly timely, as recent tragic events, such as the suicide of a 14-year-old boy allegedly due to school humiliation, have highlighted the importance of emotional intelligence in school discipline.

A New Approach to Discipline

The UAE's Ministry of Education (MoE) has introduced a comprehensive Student Behavior Code for the current academic year, categorizing 46 types of violations and their respective disciplinary actions. This system divides behavioral issues into four levels, with clear intervention steps defined at each stage. The aim is not punishment but to create a value-based learning environment founded on safety and mutual respect.

The code also provides space for teachers and school psychologists to address problematic behavior on an individual basis. The first response is not to sanction but to understand the background of the student's behavior.

Writing as an Outlet for Inner Tensions

Many schools in the UAE already employ methods where breaking rules becomes a form of self-expression. When a student behaves in a disorderly manner, the objective is not to humiliate or silence them but to understand what is happening within them.

One frequently used method is writing: students are asked to articulate how they feel, what triggered their behavior, and what they think about its consequences. This not only releases tension but also develops self-awareness. Some students write with strong, passionate words, while others express themselves quietly and restrainedly. Importantly, they are not forced to share these writings if they don't wish to, strengthening their autonomy.

Parental Involvement and Gradual Measures

According to the MoE's code, all disciplinary cases—including online behavior—are handled with the involvement of the educational regulatory authority of the respective emirate and the parents. Early intervention is crucial: measures range from verbal warnings to written notifications and deducing behavior points. If the problem persists, more intensive parental consultations and long-term monitoring may follow.

This system ensures that every party involved—the student, parent, and school—takes part in restoring discipline. The goal of these procedures is not deterrence but to provide opportunities for guided development, learning, and self-correction.

Digital Space and Control

A significant part of today's students' lives takes place online, so schools must pay attention to this as well. School IT groups and security officers monitor social media activity, especially when students share inappropriate content about teachers or the institution. However, this serves not as control but as a preventive measure—the school aims to prevent bullying or loss of trust in the online space as well.

The Role of Self-discipline

Many believe that discipline is most effective when it comes from within rather than being imposed externally. This principle is followed by many schools in Dubai and Sharjah, where teachers aim not to dominate but to balance order and honesty. Mutual respect, a sense of responsibility, and collaboration play prominent roles.

Student role-playing is also important. In some schools, the student council or prefect body assists in maintaining order by setting examples for peers and mediating between teachers and students. This not only supports order but also builds self-confidence.

What Does This Mean for Parents and the Community?

The new system encourages parents to take a more active role in their children's school life. The basis of cooperation is trust and information sharing: when parents and teachers speak the same language, warning signs can be more easily spotted. Behavioral problems often conceal home or psychological difficulties, making family support essential to the solution.

Conclusion

The United Arab Emirates sets an example of interpreting discipline not as reprisal but as an opportunity for growth. The new approach focuses on student well-being, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence while preserving the safety and respect of the school environment. The goal is not merely rule-following but raising generations that respect each other and themselves and learn from their mistakes. This improves the quality of school life and solidifies the foundation of future society.

(Source of the article based on the Ministry of Education (MoE) behavior code.)