The Decline of Respect Towards Teachers: A Troubling Trend in Education

By Ummar Jamal and Asma S. Zarooo

IN the bygone era, teachers were held in the highest regard. Teaching was revered as a noble profession, and teachers commanded admiration from both students and society as a whole. In ancient cultures, teachers were even considered equivalent to parents, and students were expected to show them the same reverence and obedience. The teacher-student relationship of the past was built on respect, discipline, and order, with students expected to be punctual, attentive, and well-behaved in class. Any form of disrespect towards teachers was simply not tolerated.

In stark contrast, we have witnessed a significant shift in recent times towards a more casual and individualistic society. The values of self-expression and personal autonomy have gained prominence, encouraging students to question authority, challenge the status quo, and advocate for their own interests. Unfortunately, this shift has led to a decline in traditional forms of respect towards teachers.

Disrespect towards teachers manifests in various ways, such as students talking back in a disrespectful tone, ignoring instructions and assignments, being disruptive in class, ridiculing teachers publicly, interrupting their lessons, and disregarding their authority and rules. Moreover, the perception of teaching as a highly valued profession has waned in the present era. This is partly due to institutions hiring individuals without the prescribed professional qualifications for teaching roles, undermining the expertise and respect associated with the profession. Additionally, the negative portrayal of teachers in the media and popular culture further contributes to the disesteem of the teaching profession.

Another contributing factor to this issue is the lack of support from parents and school administrations. Teachers are often left to handle disciplinary issues on their own, which can be overwhelming. When the authority of teachers is not upheld, students perceive them as powerless, thereby disrespecting them even more. Furthermore, the rise of technology and social media has transformed the way students communicate and interact with teachers, further eroding the respect traditionally accorded to them.

Moreover, the decline in respect towards teachers can be attributed to various other factors, including societal changes, moral degradation, technological advancements, and a shift in values and attitudes towards authority and education. However, it is essential to delve into the scientific explanations that shed light on this issue.

From a behavioral psychology perspective, indiscipline in schools can be seen as a learned behavior resulting from a lack of reinforcement of acceptable behavior, both at home and within the school environment. Social psychology attributes indiscipline to various social issues, such as peer pressure to break rules, as well as societal norms that prioritize social status over academic achievements, devaluing the role of teachers. Neuroscience research suggests that environmental factors, including stress, can impact cognitive function, leading to indiscipline and poor motivation among students, thereby contributing to the devaluation of teachers. Furthermore, cultural differences play a significant role in shaping behaviors and values. Cultural norms within schools and classrooms can influence indiscipline behaviors and the devaluation of teachers, with individualistic cultures prioritizing personal interests over academic achievement, while cultures emphasizing respect for hierarchy discourage constructive criticism of teachers.

While it is important to recognize the challenges faced by teachers in maintaining a healthy student-teacher relationship, it is also necessary to acknowledge that teachers themselves can contribute to the decline in such relationships. Here are a few reasons why teachers may be partly responsible for the erosion of a healthy student-teacher dynamic:

Lack of empathy and understanding: Some teachers may fail to empathize with their students’ challenges and individual circumstances. This lack of understanding can create a disconnect between teachers and students, leading to a breakdown in trust and respect.

Ineffective communication: Communication plays a crucial role in building positive relationships. Teachers who struggle to effectively communicate with their students may find it challenging to establish a healthy rapport. Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, frustration, and a sense of disengagement among students.

Failure to adapt teaching methods: Every student has unique learning needs and preferences. Teachers who rigidly adhere to a one-size-fits-all approach may struggle to engage and connect with their students. Failing to adapt teaching methods to cater to different learning styles can result in disinterest and disengagement among students.

Lack of enthusiasm and passion: Teachers who lack enthusiasm and passion for their subject matter may find it difficult to inspire and motivate their students. A lack of enthusiasm can lead to student apathy and a diminished sense of respect for the teacher.

Inconsistent discipline and favoritism: Teachers who do not enforce consistent discipline or show favoritism towards certain students can breed resentment and a sense of unfairness among the rest of the class. This can undermine the teacher’s authority and erode respect.

Failure to establish a positive classroom culture: Teachers are responsible for setting the tone and creating a positive classroom environment. Teachers who do not prioritize fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere may witness increased conflicts and a lack of respect among students.

It is important to note that these factors do not apply to all teachers, as many educators are dedicated and work hard to maintain healthy student-teacher relationships. However, recognizing and addressing these shortcomings can help improve the overall dynamics between teachers and students.

It is crucial for teachers to continuously reflect on their teaching practices, seek feedback from students, and actively work towards building strong relationships based on respect, empathy, and effective communication. By creating a supportive and engaging learning environment, teachers can foster positive relationships that contribute to the holistic development of their students.

The consequences of this decline in respect towards teachers are alarming. Teachers’ job satisfaction levels are at an all-time low, they work long hours for inadequate pay, and nearly half of the workforce is contemplating quitting. A nationwide survey conducted by the EdWeek Research Center and commissioned by the Winston School of Education and Social Policy at Merrimack College revealed that teachers feel under pressure, lacking support, and facing increasingly high expectations. They often feel micromanaged and excluded from decision-making processes.

To address this issue, it is crucial to involve parents and school administrators in the disciplinary process, providing support to teachers and upholding their authority. Additionally, implementing behavior management programs that focus on positive reinforcement for good behavior can help cultivate respect in schools. Professional development opportunities

• Ummar Jamal studies law at University of Kashmir and is national spokesperson of J&K Students Association. He tweets at ummar_jamal and can be reached at [email protected] . Asma S. Zaroo is an educationist and teaches sociology. She  can be reached at [email protected]

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