Policy Research Brief: The Unrestrained Use of Physical Restraints in Schools
- Editor(s)
- Anna Heinzerling, Sheryl A Larson
- Managing Editor(s)
- Julie Bershadsky
- Designer(s)
- Connie J Burkhart
English
PDF
WebSpanish
Description
The U.S. Department of Education defines physical restraints as a restriction that immobilizes or reduces the ability to move torso, arms, legs, or head freely. Because of the inherent dangers of physical restraints, their use is strictly regulated in most hospitals, prisons, and public law enforcement settings. Although students have died in physical restraints, no federal laws or standards guide their use in schools, and state regulation is uneven. Using physical restraints in schools has many negative consequences, yet they are still used—and more often to restrain students with disabilities and Black students.
A proposed federal law would regulate the use of physical restraints, and state laws can be strengthened and enforced. Schools should report the use of physical restraints, improve training and oversight, and nurture positive, safe school environments for all children.
Details
- Date
- July 2024
- Type
- Brief
- Edition
- Volume 31, Number 1
- Publisher
- Research and Training Center on Community Living (RTC-CL)
Topics
- Health and safety
- Child welfare