Final answer:
Actions other than disciplinary actions can be formal or informal sanctions, with informal sanctions occurring through social interaction and encompassing both positive and negative reactions. Positive reinforcement is favored over physical punishment due to potential psychological harm, and displacement can serve as an alternative behavioral channeling method.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering actions that can be taken besides disciplinary actions, it's important to recognize the distinction between formal sanctions and informal sanctions. Formal sanctions include official measures such as expulsion from college or dismissal from work for violations of codes of conduct or workplace rules. On the other hand, informal sanctions occur within social interactions, such as disapproving looks for wearing flip-flops to an opera or verbal reprimands for swearing loudly in church.
Informal sanctions can be both positive and negative. As an example of positive informal sanctions, an individual might receive a smile or a pat on the back for a good deed, like helping someone carry groceries. In contrast, negative informal sanctions might involve scolding or social disapproval for inappropriate behavior.
Physical punishment, such as spanking, has historically been used as a form of discipline. However, this is now considered less desirable due to the potential psychological impact and the shift towards positive reinforcement in parenting and educational approaches. Another alternative to discipline is the concept of displacement, which involves redirecting inappropriate behaviors towards more acceptable targets.
In terms of non-disciplinary alternatives, positive reinforcement and rewarding good behavior are often recommended over punishment. This can mean praising a child for their accomplishments instead of focusing only on correcting missteps.