Students' perceptions of indiscipline at three primary schools in one educational district in Central Trinidad

Abstract

This qualitative case study sought to explore students' perceptions of indiscipline in three primary schools in Trinidad and Tobago. Data were collected through interviews held with 36 students from Standards 3 and 4. The findings revealed that: 1) some students from all three schools try to justify their negative behaviours by placing a large percentage of the blame on the actions and influence of their peers; 2) students from all three schools recognized the influence of the home environment, and the role models presented there, upon their own attitudes and behaviours; 3) most students of one school and some from another felt that the community played a part in influencing their behaviour; 4) students of two schools indicated that the media, in the form of television shows, video games, and the Internet, contribute to shaping their behaviour; 5) students of two schools suggested that teachers play a part in perpetuating misbehaviour in students; and 6) students of one school did not consider the media or teachers as being perpetuators of student indiscipline.