Means of Social Control in Society | Citizenship Education and Community Engagement

 

Describe the means of social control in society.

Course: Citizenship Education and Community Engagement

Course code 8606

Level: B.Ed Solved Assignment

ANSWER

Definition

Social Control refers to societal and political mechanisms or processes that regulate individual and group behavior, leading to conformity and compliance to the rules of a given society, state, or social group. It is how members of a society attempt to induce each other to comply with societal norms. Social controls influence behavior constantly because they are internalized and come into play every time a person has a deviant impulse.

Social control is the general method of regulating the behavior of individuals in society through accepted social norms. It is a way to channel the behavior of individuals in a society so that they conform to the accepted code of conduct. Social control is defined as “how the entire social order coheres and maintains itself, operates as a whole, as changing equilibrium”.

This Social control refers to the way society controls our behavior, either through norms and practices or through the state and its compelling force. The regulation of behavior in society, whether of individuals or of groups is undertaken in two ways:

a)  By adhering to established norms and values of society; and

b)  By the use of force.

The term “social control” is generally used by sociologists to refer to this first kind of regulation. Individuals differ in their interests and capacities. If each individual is allowed unrestricted freedom to act and behave, it may lead to anarchy and disorder in society. The resultant conflicts, frequent and persistent, would be a constant drain on society’s energy and efficiency.

As an analogy, we could consider traffic movement on roads in the absence of any traffic rules and traffic signals, etc. It is easy to imagine the chaos that would rule the roads and the unending traffic jams that would follow. If we add to it the frustration of the drivers and their heated tempers, it is easy to understand that the end result is totally undesirable. The fact that traffic rules help to maintain order and efficient movement of vehicles is only due to the presence of control.

Purpose of Social Control

Sociologists attribute many purposes to social control. The aim of social control is to bring about conformity in a particular group or society. At times, out of sheer ignorance, individuals could act in a manner that may or may not benefit them. But certainly, society’s interests lie at the collective level. There are other situations when the individual is perfectly aware of the ill effects of his actions on society but he continues with his behavior because it increases his welfare. For instance, in an industry where the owner is fully aware of the harmful effects of pollution but does not install pollution control devices because he wants to maximize his profits at the cost of safeguarding the collective interests. Society seeks to regulate individual behavior.

The purpose of social control is to regulate the interests of both the individual and the group in a way that is beneficial to both. The situation in society would be no different if there was no accepted mode of behavior. Individuals, therefore, have to be made to co-exist in a manner those benefits

them, as well as the groups they comprise of social control, becomes a necessity for the following reasons:

a)  To maintain the old order: For continuity and uniformity of a social group, the old social order must be maintained. This function is fulfilled by the family. The old members of the family initiate and socialize the young ones into their traditions, value patterns, and accepted forms of behavior.

b)  To regulate individual behavior:  Individuals vary in their ideas, interests, attitudes, habits, etc. Even children of the same parents think and behave differently. Thus their behavior needs to be regulated by the established norms which would lead to uniformity and solidarity in the group.

c)  To check cultural maladjustment:  Society is changing at a rapid pace. The changes threaten to uproot the existing social system and replace it with a new system. There is a need for greater social control to distinguish between good and bad and to retain one’s sense of balance and judgment.

Forms of Social Control

In primary groups, the relationships are close, direct, and intimate. Social Control is often maintained by informal mechanisms, i.e. customs, traditions, folkways, mores, and religions. These are adopted means by informal groups.

Sociologists identify two basic forms of social control:

1.  Internalization of norms and values, and

2.  External sanctions, which can be either positive (rewards) or negative (punishment)

Social control theory began to be studied as a separate field in the early 20th century. The means to enforce social control can be either formal or informal. Sociologist Edward A. Ross argued that belief systems exert greater control on human behavior than laws imposed by the government, no matter what form the beliefs take.

Role of School in Socialization | Mass Media as Agents of Socialization

 

Analyze the role of school and mass media as agents of socialization.

Course: Citizenship Education and Community Engagement

Course code 8606

Level: B.Ed Solved Assignment

ANSWER 

Role of School

School is an important part of society. It is known as a social organization because it is the school that provides exposure to students and it prepares the students to occupy social roles according to their capacities after receiving the school. School is considered as a second home for students because it is a school wherein students spend most of the time of their day and this is utilized in the form of learning. Every student learns about social life, social norms, social beliefs, etc and he will be produced as a social being. So in the process of socialization school plays a very significant role. Its functions are as under.

The first and foremost function of the school is to transmit knowledge and skills to the younger generation. So in the process of socialization, the younger generation can utilize the knowledge and skills. They become aware of social rights, rules, regulations,s, and social beliefs so that they live according to their own ideas and knowledge. They develop thinking skills so recreation lies in their behavior.

School keeps the moral power of society, secure and also maintains the social heritage of the society. This social heritage is handed to the following generation by the school. So it brings awareness in an individual about the moral power of society and social heritage. School protects the historical continuity of society. It performs the function of acquainting the new generation with ancient myths and legends and maintaining the patterns of behavior in the form of traditions and customs. So students become aware of ancient myths and legends and behavior thereby they behave in a particular social way. The school is like a family, a social; an institution that socializes the individual and provides him some experience in social control therefore, the individual will learn to accept the kind of social control that is imposed on him in school and will also demand similar social control from society for this reason, there is a great insistence in democratic countries that the atmosphere in the school should be democratic and we find the democratic climate in school around us which acquaints students with democratic norms of social control which is very important in the process of socialization. Thus students learn how to live with democratic norms and how to behave with each other which helps in the process of socialization.

The school fosters all-around development in the personality of students, physical, mental, emotional, and social. The school involves all students in different co-curricular activities so that students develop physically, mentally, and socially, for example, curricular activities like Puzzles, games, group discussion, and sports related to the curriculum. Which develops students' physical, social, and mental thinking skills, and co–curricular or extra activities including debate, elocution,  competition, drawing, etc develop individual differences and particular skills in students. They also develop social leadership qualities other political leadership traits etc which indirectly help every individual to be a social being which means every individual is socialized by such activities.

The school provides a social environment for children by organizing student unions, social service camps social functions, parent-teacher associations,s, etc. So all the socially desirable values namely sympathy, cooperation, tolerance, social awakening, and discipline in school develop social dealing in all children. The school works under the light of social ideals and develops the child about such ideals and aims.

The school encourages children to come in active contact with the libraries and youth welfare countries organized by the community or Govt. The miniature school life is brought into active and lively contact with the wider world outside which means school provides a conducive climate. The headmasters and teachers allow freedom to the students which makes them more responsible. They impart knowledge of social customs and traditions and develop values of society among students.

The importance of the school as an agency of socialization can be divided into three subtopics: the school and society, the classroom, and the teacher. When children begin school it is usually the first time that they come under the supervision of people who are not their relatives. The school is likely the first agency that encourages children to develop loyalties and sentiments that go beyond the family and link them to a wider social order. The school as an agency of socialization should be recognized as the first organizer of social relationships (Elkin & Handel, 1978). The classroom is often seen as a place where the child is easily faced with socializing amongst peers. Since most of the things that children do in the classroom are done in the presence of their peers, they have to learn how to deal with a more formalized group situation? Parental expectations and perceptions of their children’s development of both cognitive and motor skills serve to affect the transition to the school environment (Coates & Wagenaar, 1999).

Humor in the classroom touches on socialization, one of the major functions of schools:

to acculturate knowledgeable, understanding, compassionate, and empathetic new members to our society (Freda & Pollack, 1997). The teacher also plays an important role in the social development of the child. If one of the tasks of adolescence is to achieve a balance between conformity and rebellion, then the role of the teacher is an important one in assisting children as they attempt that process. When teachers confront a negative student with humor, they often find that this use of humor is an effective way to diffuse the student’s anger and hostility. If a teacher and student can laugh together, they can most likely work together and also plan together.

 

Mass Media as Agents of Socialization

Theorists, like Parsons, and textbook authors, like Ely Chinoy (1960), and Harry M. Johnson (1961), recognized that socialization didn't stop when childhood ended. They realized that socialization continued on into adulthood, but they treated it as a form of specialized education.

Johnson (1961), for example, wrote about the importance of inculcating members of the US Coastguard with a set of values to respond to commands and act in unison without question. Some scholars accused theorists of socialization of not recognizing the importance of the mass media which, by the middle of the twentieth century, was becoming more significant as a social force. There was concern about the link between television and the education and socialization of children, a concern that continues today, but when it came to adults, the mass media were regarded merely as sources of information and entertainment, rather than molders of personality.

Some sociologists and theorists of culture have recognized the power of mass communication as a socialization device. Dennis Quail recognizes the argument: … the media can teach norms and values by way of symbolic reward and punishment for different kinds of behavior as represented by the media. An alternative view is that it is a learning process whereby we all learn how to behave in certain situations, and with the expectations which go with a given role or status in society. Thus, the media are continually offering pictures of life and models of behavior in advance of actual experience. (McQuail 2005: 494)

However, the most important agent of socialization for the development of the child is the mass media. Mass Media are the different processes that facilitate communication between the sender of a message and the receiver of that message. It plays an important role in the socialization of children. In fact, there are many types of media; these include newspapers, magazines, radio, films, CDs, the Internet, and television. These kinds of media, especially television, affect children's and adults' behavior in different ways.

Having the mass media as one of our major agents of socialization could be very hard on our society today. When watching different TV shows seeing all those actors and actresses with these great figures hurt many people in society today. In other ways watching TV could be a good thing when an actor or actress is on TV in different shows or music it could bring many good things like being a role model for an adolescent teenager who wants someone to look up to. Having these agents is a great guideline for people who want to start with a great start with their children or want to be a good communicator.

The average family in the United States has at least one television turned on for at least seven hours a day. Television is the biggest mass media in a country and has positive and negative aspects. Some programs are very helpful with lots of information for the children. For example; on channel thirty-three, there is a good program called "Dora, the Explorer". Children can learn to speak Spanish and also do things such as singing, standing up, and pronouncing words in English. On the same channel, there is also a program called "Blue's Clues". In this program, children learn how to think, sing, and discover clues. When children watch these programs, they are not the same people anymore because they can become more knowledgeable. These programs are very good because they change children's minds and make the children different from what they were before.

However, there are also television programs that affect children negatively which have too much violence, and unfortunately, children love it. Children should not see these kinds of programs because children tend to imitate the fighters. In addition, some movies have a lot of violence and unwanted words, and children love these kinds of movies. Children like and learn how to use knives, guns, and explosives because they watch them on TV. Sometimes children take the role of their superheroes in real life because they see their favorite actors using these weapons. For example; when children watch an actor stealing a car on TV, they learn from it and they also want to steal because they want to be like their superheroes.

 

Elucidate the role of religious groups and their influence on social behavior.

Course: Citizenship Education and Community Engagement

Course code 8606

Level: B.Ed Solved Assignment

ANSWER 

Religious groups have played a significant role in shaping social behavior throughout history. They have influenced cultural norms, moral values, and ethical standards, providing guidance to individuals and communities alike. In this essay, we will explore the various ways in which religious groups impact social behavior.

 

One of the primary ways in which religious groups influence social behavior is through their teachings and doctrines. Most religions have a set of beliefs that prescribe certain behaviors and discourage others. For example, many religions promote the values of compassion, forgiveness, and kindness, which encourage individuals to act in a way that benefits others. On the other hand, some religions prohibit certain behaviors, such as gambling, drug use, and premarital sex, which discourage individuals from engaging in activities that may harm themselves or others. By promoting certain values and prohibiting certain behaviors, religious groups can shape social behavior in a significant way.

 

Religious groups also provide a sense of community and belonging, which can impact social behavior. People who identify with a particular religion often feel a sense of kinship with others who share their beliefs. This shared identity can lead to increased social cohesion and cooperation, as individuals are more likely to help others within their religious community. Additionally, religious groups often engage in charitable work and social outreach programs, providing assistance to those in need. This can also impact social behavior by encouraging individuals to be more charitable and compassionate towards others.

 

Another way in which religious groups influence social behavior is through the promotion of social norms. Most religions have a set of moral and ethical standards that dictate how individuals should behave toward one another. These standards may include the importance of honesty, fairness, and respect for others. By promoting these social norms, religious groups can influence social behavior positively, promoting cooperation and social harmony.

 

Religious groups can also have a significant impact on political and social issues. Many religious groups advocate for certain political causes, such as human rights, social justice, and environmentalism. By promoting these causes, religious groups can influence public policy and shape social behavior in a significant way. Additionally, religious groups often have a significant influence on social and cultural practices, such as marriage, family structure, and gender roles. By advocating for certain social practices, religious groups can impact social behavior and cultural norms.

 

However, it is important to note that the influence of religious groups on social behavior is not always positive. Some religious groups promote extreme or harmful beliefs, such as the promotion of violence or discrimination against certain groups of people. Additionally, religious groups may hurt social behavior by promoting exclusivity or intolerance towards those who do not share their beliefs. It is important to recognize that while religious groups can have a significant impact on social behavior, this impact is not always positive.

 

In conclusion, religious groups have played a significant role in shaping social behavior throughout history. They have influenced cultural norms, moral values, and ethical standards, providing guidance to individuals and communities alike. Through their teachings, sense of community, promotion of social norms, and advocacy for political and social issues, religious groups can have a significant impact on social behavior. However, it is important to recognize that the influence of religious groups on social behavior is not always positive and that extreme or harmful beliefs promoted by some religious groups can have negative consequences for individuals and society as a whole.

 

Suggest ways in which our education system may help in the promotion of our culture  

Course: Citizenship Education and Community Engagement

Course code 8606

Level: B.Ed Solved Assignment

ANSWER  

The promotion of culture is an essential aspect of education. Our education system plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting our cultural heritage. It helps students understand and appreciate the customs, traditions, and practices that are unique to our country. Here are some ways in which our education system can help in promoting our culture. 

Include cultural education in the curriculum

The education system can promote our culture by including cultural education in the curriculum. This can be achieved by introducing subjects such as history, literature, art, music, and dance that highlight the cultural heritage of our country. Students can learn about the rich traditions and customs that are unique to our country. By learning about our culture, students can gain a better understanding and appreciation of it. Additionally, cultural education can also help in preserving our cultural heritage by passing it on to future generations. 

Organize cultural events

Schools and colleges can organize cultural events and festivals to promote the traditional practices and beliefs of our culture. Such events can help students learn about different cultural practices, customs, and traditions that are unique to our country. By organizing such events, students can get an opportunity to participate in and experience different cultural practices. It can also foster a sense of unity and belonging among students from different backgrounds. 

Preserve cultural artifacts

Our education system can also play a crucial role in preserving the cultural artifacts of our country. This can be achieved by setting up museums and cultural centers that showcase the rich cultural heritage of our country. These museums and cultural centers can display artifacts such as ancient sculptures, manuscripts, paintings, and artifacts that showcase our cultural heritage. By preserving these artifacts, our education system can ensure that our cultural heritage is not lost to time.

Encourage research and documentation

The education system can encourage research and documentation of our culture, which can help in preserving and promoting it. This can be achieved by organizing seminars, conferences, and workshops where scholars and researchers can present their findings on various aspects of our culture. By promoting research and documentation of our culture, our education system can help us gain a better understanding of our cultural heritage. It can also help in preserving and promoting our cultural identity. 

Promote language learning

Our language is an integral part of our culture, and promoting language learning can help in preserving our cultural identity. The education system can encourage the learning of regional languages and dialects, which can help in promoting our culture. By learning regional languages and dialects, students can understand the nuances of our culture better. It can also help in promoting unity among people from different regions.

 

Introduce cultural exchange programs

Cultural exchange programs can be a great way to promote our culture. Schools and colleges can organize cultural exchange programs where students from different parts of the country can interact with each other. It can help in promoting cultural diversity and unity. Students can learn about different cultural practices, customs, and traditions. It can also help in promoting a sense of mutual respect and understanding among students. 

Teach cultural values

The education system can promote our culture by teaching cultural values such as respect, empathy, and inclusiveness. By teaching these values, students can learn to appreciate different cultures and traditions. It can also help in promoting a sense of unity among people from different backgrounds.

 

In conclusion, our education system plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting our cultural heritage. By including cultural education in the curriculum, organizing cultural events, preserving cultural artifacts, encouraging research and documentation, promoting language learning, introducing cultural exchange programs, and teaching cultural values, our education system can help preserve and promote our cultural identity.

Concept of Socialization | Socialize role in the learning process | Citizenship Education and Community Engagement | Course code 8606 | B.Ed Solved Assignment

 

Discuss the concept of socialization and identify its role in the learning process

Course: Citizenship Education and Community Engagement

Course code 8606

Level: B.Ed Solved Assignment

ANSWER 

Socialization is the process through which individuals acquire the norms, values, beliefs, and behaviors of their society. It is the process by which people learn how to behave in a way that is socially acceptable within their cultural or social group. Socialization starts from childhood and continues throughout an individual's life, shaping their identity and behavior.

 

Socialization is a critical process in the learning process because it helps individuals acquire the skills, knowledge, and behaviors necessary to function in society. Socialization can be divided into two types: primary socialization and secondary socialization. Primary socialization is the process of learning that occurs in the family and is the foundation for an individual's socialization. Secondary socialization is the process of learning that occurs outside the family, such as in schools, peer groups, and the media.

 

One of the key roles of socialization in the learning process is the acquisition of language. Language is a crucial component of socialization, as it enables individuals to communicate and interact with others. Children learn language from their parents and caregivers, and it is through language that they learn the norms and values of their culture. Language acquisition also allows individuals to understand and interpret the world around them and to develop their cognitive abilities.

 

Another important role of socialization in the learning process is the development of social skills. Social skills are the skills required to interact with others in a socially acceptable manner. These skills include communication, cooperation, and conflict resolution. Children learn social skills from their family and peers, and it is through socialization that they learn to navigate social situations.

 

Socialization also plays a critical role in shaping an individual's identity. Identity refers to an individual's sense of self, including their values, beliefs, and attitudes. Socialization teaches individuals about their gender, ethnicity, religion, and other aspects of their identity. These social categories are important because they provide individuals with a sense of belonging and help them understand their place in society. Socialization also teaches individuals how to express their identity in ways that are socially acceptable.

 

The media also plays an important role in socialization. The media includes television, movies, music, and other forms of popular culture. The media is a powerful tool for shaping an individual's attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors. The media can reinforce social norms and values, or it can challenge them. For example, television shows can promote gender stereotypes or challenge them by featuring strong female characters.

 

Schools also play a critical role in socialization. Schools provide children with a structured environment for learning and interacting with others. Schools teach children the academic skills required for success in life, but they also teach social skills, such as teamwork, communication, and conflict resolution. Schools also provide opportunities for children to develop their interests and passions, which can shape their identity.

 

Peer groups are also important for socialization. Peer groups are groups of people who are similar in age and social status. Peer groups provide children with a sense of belonging and acceptance, and they can help children learn social skills and norms. Peer groups can also influence an individual's values and behaviors, both positively and negatively.

 

In conclusion, socialization is a critical process in the learning process. Socialization enables individuals to acquire the norms, values, beliefs, and behaviors necessary to function in society. It is through socialization that individuals learn how to interact with others, develop a sense of self, and understand their place in society. Socialization also teaches individuals the social skills required for success in life and shapes their identity. Primary socialization occurs in the family, while secondary socialization occurs outside the family, in schools, peer groups, and the media

How can group dynamics be applied in your daily classroom teaching | Citizenship Education and Community Engagement | Course code 8606 | B.Ed Solved Assignment

 

How can group dynamics be applied in your daily classroom teaching?

Course: Citizenship Education and Community Engagement

Course code 8606

Level: B.Ed Solved Assignment

ANSWER 

Group dynamics can be effectively applied in daily classroom teaching to promote a positive learning environment and enhance student engagement and collaboration. Here are some ways to incorporate group dynamics into your teaching: 

Group work:

 Assigning group work to students is an effective way to encourage teamwork, problem-solving skills, and communication. This can be done through group discussions, group presentations, or group projects. 

Class discussion:

Encourage students to participate in classroom discussions and express their opinions. This will help to develop their critical thinking and communication skills, and will also foster a sense of community within the classroom. 

Group feedback:

 Encourage students to provide feedback to each other on their work. This can be done through peer reviews, group critiques, or other forms of constructive feedback. 

Role-playing:

Role-playing exercises can help students to better understand and apply concepts learned in class. This can be done in small groups or as a whole class. 

Classroom rules:

Establish classroom rules and expectations that promote positive group dynamics. For example, encourage students to listen to each other, respect each other's opinions, and work together to solve problems. 

By incorporating group dynamics into your daily classroom teaching, you can create a positive and engaging learning environment that promotes collaboration, communication, and critical thinking skills among your students.

 

 

 

 

Individual and Group Behavior affect the school and classroom environment |

 

How do Individual and Group Behavior affect the school and classroom environment

Course: Citizenship Education and Community Engagement

Course code 8606

Level: B.Ed Solved Assignment

ANSWER

Individual Behavior and Group Behavior

People in groups behave differently than they do individually.  Group expectations influence individual behavior, and individual behavior affects the group. Teachers need to be aware of the characteristic traits of group behavior.

Characteristics of Group Behavior

1.  Groups create their own psychological forces that influence individual behavior teacher awareness of group dynamics is important to effective classroom control.

2.  Group behavior in the classroom is influenced by how students perceive the teacher. Students see teachers as filling many psychological roles.

3.  Dealing with classroom conflict requires diagnostic thinking by the teacher. This thinking involves:

•          forming a first idea;
•          gathering facts about the idea;
•          applying hidden factors to draw conclusions;
•          taking action; and
•      Being flexible.

4.  Teachers maintain group control through various influence techniques. These techniques include:

•         supporting self-control,
•      Offering  situational assistance,
•          appraising reality, and
•          Invoking pleasure and pain.

The important aspect of controlling behavior is to locate the reason behind a particular behavior. Students exhibiting certain behaviors must have some objective, focus on that objective, and try to satisfy the needs of the students or of the group.

A)  Supporting Self-Control techniques are used at the initial stage. They address the problem before it becomes serious. They include eye contact, moving closer, humor, encouragement, and ignoring.

B)  Situational Assistance techniques are necessary when students cannot regain control without assistance from the teacher. Techniques to provide assistance include:

·         helping students over a hurdle;

•      Restructuring the schedule;
•          establishing routines;
•          removing the student from a situation;
•          removing seductive objects; and
•          physical restraint.

C)  Appraising Reality techniques involve helping students understand underlying causes for misbehavior and foresee probable consequences. Teachers 'tell it like it is', offer encouragement, set limits, and clarify situations with post-situational follow-up.

D)  Rewarding good behavior and punishing bad behavior is an important characteristic, punishment should be used only as a last resort because it is too often less productive.

A group creates conditions such as its members will behave in certain ways because they belong to it; at the same time how the parts function affects the whole. In other words, group expectations strongly influence individual behavior, and individual behavior in turn affects the group.

Roles of Individuals within the Classroom

Several roles are available to individuals in groups. The following are some of the roles that can cause trouble in the classroom:

1.  Leader

A leadership role is available in almost every group. The role varies according to the group's purpose, makeup, and activities. Within the same group, different people may act as leaders in different activities. For example, a student who is a leader in one activity may be assigned different roles in the other activity, which creates a problem when a person is exhibiting different roles he/she may not restrain him/herself from the other role. Group leaders tend to share certain qualities. They are above average in most respects (intellect, social skills, responsibility, and socio-economic status). They generally have a highly developed understanding of others, and they embody group ideals. Teachers must be aware that the leaders they appoint are not necessarily the group's natural leaders. Such mismatches often lead to conflict within the group.

2.  Clowns

Clowns are individuals who take the position of entertainer of the group. Students sometimes take this role to mask feelings of inferiority, thinking it best to make fun of their own before others have a chance. Clowns sometimes help the group and sometimes hinder it. Clowning can be beneficial to both the teacher and the group, especially when students are anxious, frustrated, or in need of relief from tension. At times, however, group members may support the disruptive antics of the clown as a way of expressing hostility to the teacher.

3.  Fall, Guys

A fall guy is an individual who takes blame and punishment to gain favor with the group. Members of the group feel free to misbehave knowing that they can set up the fall guy to suffer the penalties. Teachers need to be aware of this kind of manipulation and be sure to focus their corrective actions on the instigator of misbehavior

4.  Instigators

Instigators are individuals who cause trouble but appear not to be involved. They often solve their inner conflicts by getting others to act them out. They may even feel that they are benefiting the victim in some way. Teachers need to look into recurring conflicts carefully to see if there is an unnoticed instigator. It may be necessary to point out this role to the group, as it is often undetected by them. The group may need help in recognizing and discouraging this role.

Teachers' Role to Optimize the Functioning of Group:

All of the roles described here are played by individuals in groups either because the role fills a strong personal need or because the group expects or enjoys it. By playing a role, an individual finds a place within the group one of the main desires of almost all students, and becomes a functioning part of the group.

1.  Psychological Roles of Teachers:

How groups and individuals behave in the classroom is greatly influenced by how they perceive the teacher. Like it or not, teachers fill many different roles and present many different images. Some of these roles and images are:

2.  Representatives of society:

Teachers reflect and develop values, moral attitudes, and thinking patterns typical of the community. Teachers also judge students' behavior, character, work, and progress.

3.  Source of knowledge:

Teachers are the primary source of knowledge, a resource from which to obtain information. Teachers help students learn by giving directions, furnishing information, requiring that work be done, removing obstacles to learning, and facilitating problem-solving.

4.  Role of Director

Teachers arbitrate and make decisions when disputes arise. They maintain security in the classroom; discover wrongdoing, and hand out consequences. They are responsible for modeling customs, manners, values, and beliefs that students are to imitate. This all ultimately helps to anxiety by maintaining standards of behavior, consistent environments, regular schedules, and freedom from danger or threat.

As you can see, teachers are assigned many roles by students. Sometimes they have little choice about those roles, but they can usually decide in part on the roles and on how and when to assume them. They may assume some roles wholeheartedly and avoid others completely, depending on how they wish to relate to students. Sometimes they may adopt or avoid certain roles if they are aware of a strong group need. In any event, teachers need to be sure that they are steady and consistent in the roles they assume.