Young People Experiencing Behavioural Difficulties.

History has informed the present, as surely as the present will inform the future. As an evolving society, we are continually reflecting on the events and experiences of the past, taking stock of the issues and realities of the present, and then adapting the parameters, definitions and constructs that serve to define acceptability and reason as we move forward into the future. Our society’s perceptions about children – their learning, their rights, their status, and the disciplinary imperatives associated with these perceptions – have evolved and changed markedly over time. What was considered fair, right and just 100 years ago is now no longer deemed principled, relevant or appropriate. How has the passage of time during the last 150 years in Aotearoa New Zealand influenced and shaped current perceptions about, and responses to, children and behaviour? What legal, ethical and educational milestones have contributed to these current perceptions and responses? This article journeys through a timeline of societal, legal and educational events that have impacted on today’s theoretical and practical notions.