The Psychological Impact of Outdated School Discipline in Sri Lanka.

The Crisis in Student Well-being and Self-Expression

Education in Sri Lanka has long been a subject of debate, particularly regarding student discipline and personal expression. The stark difference between students in Sri Lanka and those in other countries is evident, with many Sri Lankan children appearing less confident and self-assured. This can be attributed to both genetic factors and, more importantly, a lack of proper nutrition—especially protein intake. However, one of the most significant contributing factors is the restrictive school environment, where students are not given the freedom to present themselves in a confident and dignified manner.

The Role of Overly Strict Teachers

A major issue in Sri Lanka’s traditional schooling system is the excessive control imposed by teachers, particularly those who fail to recognize the psychological needs of adolescents. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and psychologists, children aged 10-13 are in the "early adolescence" phase, while those aged 14-17 fall under "middle adolescence." During this critical developmental period, both boys and girls undergo significant physical and psychological changes driven by hormonal activity.

Adolescents naturally become more self-conscious about their appearance. They develop an interest in grooming, wearing stylish clothes, using perfume, and presenting themselves attractively. This is not a sign of misconduct but rather a crucial part of self-identity and social development. However, in Sri Lanka, many teachers do not understand this and often humiliate students for expressing themselves.

Common Disciplinary Actions That Harm Students' Mental Health

• Haircut Rules: Students are not allowed to maintain their preferred hairstyles. Teachers forcibly cut students’ hair in front of their peers, causing severe embarrassment and a loss of self-esteem.
• Restrictions on Footwear: Students wearing fashionable or comfortable shoes are often publicly reprimanded, sometimes even having their shoes damaged by teachers.
• Use of Perfume or Grooming Products: If a student wears perfume or cologne, they are often scolded, punished, or even sent home, reinforcing a negative association with personal grooming.
• Uniform Restrictions: School uniforms are often enforced in an extreme manner, forcing students to wear oversized, ill-fitting clothes that make them look and feel uncomfortable.

These practices not only stifle individuality but also damage students' self-esteem, increase anxiety, and lead to long-term emotional consequences.

Psychological Consequences of Excessive Discipline

1. Lowered Self-Esteem
2. Increased Anxiety and Stress
3. Rebellion and Defiance
4. Long-Term Emotional Damage

A Comparison: Traditional Schools vs. International Schools in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s education landscape is divided into traditional government schools and private international schools. The differences between the two are stark:

• International Schools Encourage Individuality: Unlike traditional government schools, many international schools allow students to maintain their preferred hairstyles, wear comfortable uniforms, and engage in grooming activities without fear of punishment.
• Focus on Mental Well-being: International schools emphasize student counseling, personal development, and psychological well-being, fostering an environment where students can express themselves without fear.
• Better Academic Performance & Confidence: Students in international schools tend to develop higher self-confidence and perform better in interviews and professional settings because they are encouraged to express themselves freely.
• Lack of Unnecessary Discipline: International schools follow global standards where discipline is enforced through mentorship and positive reinforcement rather than humiliation and fear.

However, the privilege of attending international schools is limited to those who can afford the high tuition fees, leaving the majority of students in government schools to endure outdated disciplinary measures that hinder their development.

A Call for Change: Reforming Student Discipline in Sri Lanka

The solution is not to allow students to act without discipline but to create an educational environment that respects their natural development. Schools should implement grooming and self-care sessions instead of punishing students for expressing themselves. Teachers must be trained to handle adolescent psychology appropriately, moving away from authoritarian practices toward a more understanding and supportive approach.

Conclusion

A child’s school years should be a time of self-discovery and happiness, not a period of fear and suppression. If Sri Lanka continues to uphold outdated and oppressive school discipline, the country will continue to produce adults who lack confidence, struggle with social interactions, and fail to reach their full potential. The education system must evolve, embracing modern psychological principles to nurture well-rounded, confident individuals who can contribute meaningfully to society.

#Education #Psychology #StudentRights #MentalHealth #SriLanka #SchoolDiscipline #FutureGenerations