Such training must provide the specific positive skills necessary to transform adversarial relationships and climates. The antidote to coercion is training in strength-based restorative methods. In spite of research on the ineffectiveness of coercion, such practices persist and are believed by many to be essential for maintaining order and discipline. This shows a polarization between coercive and strength-based philosophies. An Inventory of Behavioral Interventions with troubled children and youth is presented.

Effective interventions should be consistent with all three perspectives. Debates about these methods reflect three different viewpoints: humanistic values, research findings, and practice reality. Among the most controversial behavior management practices are restraint and seclusion. Instead, pain-based behavior is met with coercive interventions. Recent clinical and brain studies indicate that troubled children and youth are reacting to distressing life circumstances with 'pain-based behavior.' Those who deal with such behavior often lack the necessary skills to prevent and manage crisis situations. But if children's needs are not met, they can show a range of emotional and behavioral problems. Now, a new positive psychology of youth development has identified the strengths and supports which lead to resilient outcomes.

For two centuries, there have been attempts to eliminate coercive discipline practices in education and treatment.

No Disposable Kids by Larry K. Brendtro