Controlling Themselves

Controlling Themselves offers a theoretically sound argument for the radical change of ubiquitous systems of behavioral and academic intervention and support. A new, practical model is proposed that ensures the development of competence, connectedness, autonomy, and engagement so all students can deeply learn. Controlling Themselves offers a theoretically sound and practical way of constructing meaning around the topic of supporting students who are struggling to self-manage their behavior in school. Based on the framework of self-determination theory, the book emphasizes developing the feelings of competence, connectedness, autonomy, and engagement in students so they can manage themselves, engage deeply in learning, and develop the executive function necessary to navigate their lives. This book also offers a hopeful and alternative way of supporting all students so that bribing, manipulating, and coercing students’ behavior is unnecessary. Controlling Themselves is the follow-up to Knestrict’s foundational work, Controlling Our Children. While grounded in deep research, Controlling Themselves never loses sight of those who should be at the center—the students. Knestrict wisely identifies that the vast pressures on an overwhelmed education system have led to bastardizations of behavior models that, in theory, should support but instead rely on control. Connection is paramount to student success and fundamental to a healthy Tier One, yet students are being taken away from their community. In this book, Knestrict deconstructs the problem, demonstrates understanding of how we got here, and proposes a different solution. We need to dismantle the practices that no longer work, understand why, then integrate new strategies that respect the autonomy and connection our kids deserve.— Tara McKernan, M.Ed., LCPC