The Difference Between a Discipline Problem and a Motivation Problem
A discipline problem in any behavior that:
 Interferes with the teaching act
 Interferes with students right or ability to learn
 Is psychologically or physically unsafe
 Destroys or damages property
A motivation problem on the other hand, is much more complex. It has to do with a
student’s:
 low self-confidence
 low expectations for success
 lack of interest in the subject matter or academics altogether
 a loss of a sense of autonomy
 achievement anxieties
 fears of success or failure
Discipline problems typically require preventative strategies as well as short-term
interventions. Motivation problems on the other hand, require long-term, individualized
interventions. Discipline problems need to be addressed so that others can learn. Motivation
problems need to be addressed after other students are learning.
Since motivation problems generally do not interfere with other students’ learning, some
strategies we may use to manage them may end up interfering with other students’ learning.
Therefore, motivation problems should be managed individually after the rest of the class has
gotten to work.
Below are some examples of discipline problems versus motivation problems.
Discipline Problem Motivation Problem
• Writing on the desk • Head on the desk
• Keeping others from turning in work • Refusing to turn in homework
• Damaging or destroying property • Unprepared for class (pencil, book, etc.)
• Distracting behavior • Daydreaming
• Bothering another student • Dirty Looks
• Talking out of turn • Refusing to participate in a discussion
• Walking around the classroom • Doing other work doing class
It is important to know the difference between a discipline problem and a motivation
problem because each requires a different strategy. Often, if we treat a motivation problem
as if it were a discipline problem, we can actually create a discipline problem.
*From Levin and Nolan, 1996.
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