CONCEPT: The Difference Between Discipline and Abuse

APROXIMATE TIME: 1 Hour

SUGGESTED MATERIALS: No additional materials are required. Refer to the Instructor Information   link in the User's Guide for the basic materials to teach a class.

While maintaining good order and discipline in a unit is inherent in our military organizations, discipline in a volunteer organization such as the CAP is a delicate topic. Members must understand how to instill appropriate discipline, but at the same time understand that discipline should never cross the line of becoming abusive.

In this lesson we gain an understanding of the difference between discipline and abuse. In addition, members should gain an understanding of appropriate discipline in a situation, while avoiding areas that may be construed as hazing. Finally, members will gain an appreciation of techniques to deter abuse.

1. Discuss the CAP policy in regards to leadership standards for its senior members, and how the CAP screens its members in an effort to protect cadets.
2. Discuss the Cadet Protection Policy as defined in CAPR 52-10.
3. Discuss the definition of hazing as defined by the CAP and how hazing is not compatible with any organization.
4. Discuss reporting requirements for suspected abuse and actions that will be taken.
5. Discuss techniques that are available to commanders to avoid abuse.

Attention Step: (Slide 1) While maintaining good order and discipline in a unit is inherent in our military organizations, discipline in a volunteer organization such as the CAP is a delicate topic. Members must understand how to instill appropriate discipline, but at the same time understand that discipline should never cross the line of becoming abusive.

Lesson Objectives: (Slide 2) In today’s lesson we will discuss the differences between discipline and abuse, the definition of hazing, and some techniques to guard against abusive behavior.

Main Point 1: (Slide 3) Discipline is the cornerstone of our military organizations, backed up by the UCMJ, which provides for harsh penalties for such things as disobeying lawful orders or neglecting one’s duties. As a volunteer organization, CAP members are not covered by the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) and thus effectively applying and enforcing discipline becomes a tremendous challenge for leaders of volunteers.

(Slide 4) Discuss the definition of Discipline with the members. Note the use of the word training in the definition versus punishment.

1. How do we apply discipline in the CAP?
2. In what instances should you apply discipline?

Answers: Use your experience as a CAP member, as well as other member’s experience.

From what we have just talked about in regards to discipline, what is the difference between discipline and abuse?

Answer: Discipline is defined as "training expected to produce a specific type or pattern of behavior; training that produces moral or mental improvement". Abuse is defined "to use wrongly or improperly; a corrupt practice or custom; maltreatment".

Main Point 2: (Slide 5) Definition of abuse.

While the focus of this lesson is abuse of cadets, consider that abuse also applies to misuse of power or position as a CAP member.

Question: In regards to our Cadets, what are two types of abuse that we in the CAP are concerned with?

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(Slide 6) The two types of abuse are defined in Civil Air Patrol Regulation 52-10

Sexual abuse. Cadets will not be subjected to sexual molestation, touching, contact, exposure, suggestions, or other incidents of a sexually oriented nature.

Physical abuse is the second type. Cadets will not be physically struck, hazed, or assaulted in any way.

Question: What is hazing?

< See next slide for CAP definition. >

(Slide 7) CAPR 52-10 definition of hazing. (See text for definition)

QUESTION: What is the difference in kidding, teasing, and hazing?

Answer: Mature judgement

Hazing may be actual or implied acts. It may be verbal or psychological. Soliciting or encouraging another to engage in such activity is also considered hazing.

Examples of hazing include using exercise as punishment or assigning remedial training that does not fit the deficiency (such as making a cadet run laps for having poorly shined shoes).

QUESTION: What are the consequences of allowing hazing to occur within in a unit?

Answer: Hazing is considered a form of physical abuse and the reporting procedures for physical abuse must be followed. Hazing is morally wrong, and is a detriment to morale of all members. Depending on the severity, you may be subject to legal action.

(Slide 8) INSTRUCTOR NOTE: Ask members what they think are the responsibilities of each of the persons listed.

1. Exercise judgment and discretion when selecting senior members, cadets, and other persons to conduct or supervise cadet activities.

2. Encourage members to report any observed or alleged abuse.

3. When cadet abuse is alleged and/or verified, suspend the member from all CAP activities, make immediate notification, and take appropriate personnel actions.

4. Ensure that at least two "approved" senior members are present at all overnight cadet activities. Encourage at least two senior members to be present at all cadet activities (with the exception of chaplain counseling or cadet orientation flights). This policy is for the protection of the senior members as well as the cadets.

5. Conduct periodic orientations for senior members to ensure they understand the procedures and policies set forth in this regulation.

6. Ensure cadets are informed of the policies contained in this regulation.

7. Spot-check signatures on permission slips.

8. Provide parents with a calendar of activities and notify the parents when a scheduled activity is cancelled, relocated, or changed.

9. Give the parents an opportunity to personally meet the senior members by periodically designating meetings as "parents night".

10. Mail parents a current roster of members who supervise or conduct cadet activities.

SUMMARY (Slide 9) As a Senior Member in the CAP, you have met the high standards required to lead our Cadet program. Your leadership is vital to success of the CAP and will play an important role in shaping their lives. Good order and discipline is important, but you should never go "over the line." The CAP is committed to the protection of its cadets, and each member plays an important role in that protection.