A time-out is a form of behavioral modification that involves temporarily separating a person from an environment where an unacceptable behavior has occurred. The goal is to remove that person from an enriched, enjoyable environment, and therefore lead to extinction of the offending behavior.[1] It is an educational and parenting technique recommended by most pediatricians and developmental psychologists as an effective form of discipline. During time-outs, a corner or a similar space is designated, where the person is to sit or stand (hence the common term corner time). This form of discipline is especially popular in Western cultures.[2][3]
In the UK, the punishment is often known as the naughty step or naughty chair. This term became popular in the US thanks to two reality TV series, Supernanny and Nanny 911.
- ^ Smith, Donald E. P (1981). "Is Isolation Room Time-Out a Punisher?". Behavioral Disorders. 6 (4): 247–256. doi:10.1177/019874298100600407. JSTOR 23881717. S2CID 142094161.
- ^ Berger, Kathleen Stassen (2014). An Invitation to the Life Span. New York: Worth Publisher. ISBN 9781464172052.
- ^ Schmitt, Barton (15 June 2022). "Time-Out Technique". greenwoodpediatrics.com. Archived from the original on 12 April 2022.