In cases like the foregoing the use of the principle of substitution is
almost a necessity. Emma wants distinction and leadership. Satisfy her
desire by letting her lead in some really beneficial work. She will
enjoy it and have no time for showing leadership in wrongdoing. By
turning her activities into right channels, not only her own tendency
toward disobedience is repressed, but her leadership saves others from
misbehavior. “The dictum, ‘Keep pupils busy,’ finds a much more
practical and dignified expression in what may be termed the ‘doctrine
of substitution.’ This doctrine would prevent the expression of
undesirable impulses by substituting some other form of activity rather
than by requiring an absolute inhibition of all movement.”[2]
Footnote 2:
Bagley, _Classroom Management_, p. 103. Macmillan.