MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Time out

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Time out

Time out is a form of punishment used by parents or teachers in response to undesired behaviors amongst children. When children are put in time out, they are put in a certain designated place to sit for a certain amount of time to reflect upon their behavior. Time out is an effective disciplinary technique in which no physical punishment is used.

Update Date: 2/14/2007

Updated by: Leisha M. Andersen, M.D., Private Practice specializing in Pediatrics, Denver, CO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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