Abstract
Discipline is the deliberate, or lack of, action to regulate behaviour. It is the practice of frank and strict adherence to legislation and guidelines, and cultural standards and values; the ability to control oneself or other people, even in challenging circumstances. Discipline means teaching acceptable behaviours and unlearning maladaptive behaviours with support, guidance and direction in managing behaviour. It is about setting limits, clarifying roles, responsibilities, and mutual expectations and creating a predictable, orderly and stable life.In the learning environment, indiscipline can manifest itself in disobeying set rules, bullying, truancy, lateness to school, cultism, alcohol and drug abuse, insulting/assaulting, sexual harassment, stealing, rioting, striking, setting school fires, ‘gassing of learners, and many other anti-social vices. If allowed to continue, such indiscipline manifests itself later in life. In contrast, inculcating discipline at an early age helps to bring order in the different facets of a person’s life – you just need to look at our security or military forces’