Positive Discipline is a model rooted in Adlerian Psychology, designed for parents, educators, couples, leaders, and communities to cultivate responsible, respectful, and resilient relationships. This approach, inspired by the bestselling works of Jane Nelsen, Lynn Lott, and others, promotes a sense of belonging and significance through five key criteria:

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1. Fostering connection: Creating a sense of belonging and importance for individuals.

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2. Mutual respect: Balancing kindness with firmness in interactions.

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3. Long-term effectiveness: Considering a person's thoughts, feelings, learning, decisions, and future well-being.

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4. Teaching essential skills: Cultivating respect, empathy, problem-solving, communication, cooperation, and community contribution.

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5. Encouraging autonomy: Empowering individuals to recognize and utilize their capabilities constructively.

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These five criteria are foundational to Positive Discipline and are applicable not only to children but also to adults in various relationships.

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The Positive Discipline model draws from the works of Alfred Adler and Rudolf Dreikurs, with origins dating back to the 1920s. Dr. Adler introduced the concept of respectful parenting in the U.S., emphasizing that excessive pampering could lead to behavioral challenges. Dr. Dreikurs later brought classroom techniques to America, emphasizing respectful and encouraging methods to foster positive behavior and relationships within educational settings.