This thesis forms a unique exploration into the messiness of managing the behaviour of Level 2 learners studying at a sixth form setting. It is a story of learners’ perceptions, beliefs and experiences of the risk factors influencing their behaviour, and the challenges faced to modify behaviour to meet the expectations of disciplinary processes. The 15 learners participating within this study were selected having experienced sanctions to address inappropriate behaviour ranging from poor attendance, non- completion of coursework and disciplinary action for fighting. The application of a Bourdieusian framework provides a lens through which to interpret the participants’ responses, helping to frame understanding, claims and implications surrounding the complexities influencing learners’ behaviour and how this influences their decision making when inappropriate behaviour is challenged. To explore existing research and literature, this thesis draws upon national and international studies, practitioner guides and statutory advice and guidance from across the fields of education and behaviour management of children and young people. The literature and research studies provide an insight into the complexities of behaviour expectations, the effectiveness of interventions for supporting behaviour modification, and the influences of risk factors. Using semi-structured interviews to collect primary data, the analysis of findings within this study supports the suggestion that risk factors influence how the learners perceive, experience and respond to the rules of disciplinary processes and sanctions. The results indicate that influences such as socio-economic status, educational experiences, the extent of parental involvement, and Covid-19 create multiple risk factors that influence the participants’ behaviour. The findings suggest that having more than one risk factor impacts negatively upon behaviour modifications and that the belief of ‘being on the wrong course’ adds to those challenges already in existence, further influencing behaviour modification and exacerbating the situation.
| Date of Award | 5 Nov 2024 |
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| Original language | English |
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| Supervisor | Wayne Bailey (Main Supervisor), Bob Gilworth (Co-Supervisor) & Katherine Davey (Co-Supervisor) |
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