"Punishment may make us obey the orders we are given, but at best it will only teach an obedience to authority, not a self-control which enhances our self-respect"

Bruno Bettelheim highlights the distinction between obedience created through external force and the internal development of self-control. When individuals follow orders out of fear of punishment, their motivation is rooted in avoiding negative consequences rather than an understanding of the underlying principles guiding those orders. This dynamic fosters a mindset in which authority is obeyed for its own sake, rather than cultivated personal values or thoughtful consideration of right and wrong.

The reliance on punitive measures to shape behavior can have several detrimental effects. It prioritizes conformity over critical thinking and discourages individuals from developing autonomy or independent judgment. This environment can suppress curiosity, creativity, and the willingness to question directives that might be unjust or unethical. When obedience is compelled through punishment, the focus remains on external approval or the avoidance of disapproval, rather than cultivating self-respect or an internal moral compass.

Self-control, in contrast, comes from internalized values and a personal sense of responsibility. It is closely linked to self-respect because it requires individuals to make conscious choices, even in the absence of external monitoring or threat. Those who act out of self-control demonstrate an understanding of the reasons behind rules and expectations; their conduct is driven by a sense of integrity rather than mere compliance. This self-governance enhances dignity and self-worth, building a foundation for personal growth and resilience.

Thus, Bettelheim warns against mistaking forced obedience for genuine moral development. Sustainable character and self-respect arise from nurturing an internal locus of control, where individuals guide their actions according to principles they understand and value. Punishment may achieve short-term compliance, but it does not cultivate the deeper qualities that enable people to act ethically and autonomously in the long term.