Understanding the Impact of Corporal Punishment on Children
When children head to school each morning, they have a lot on their minds. They might be worried about pop quizzes or resolving conflicts with friends. But in some states where corporal punishment is not expressly banned, students also walk into school knowing they might be subjected to physical pain in the form of paddling or spanking.
Corporal punishment is considered the harshest form of punishment in schools and is classified as a human rights violation by the United Nations. According to the UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, corporal punishment conflicts with a child’s human dignity and right to physical integrity. It also hinders their potential development, jeopardizing their health, survival, and overall well-being. The American Academy of Pediatrics released a statement in August 2023, calling for the abolition of corporal punishment in all states by law. Although Colorado has banned corporal punishment in public schools, 17 states have yet to do so, and 14 states continue to practice it. Only four states have banned corporal punishment in private schools.
While some parents believe in the effectiveness of corporal punishment, others like Tessa Davis from Little Rock, Ark., have found it to be detrimental. Davis initially consented to her son being paddled, thinking it was the best course of action. However, she soon realized the negative impact it had on her child’s well-being and trust in the school’s authority figures. Many parents in her community support corporal punishment, reminiscing about how they were spanked as children and claiming to have turned out “just fine.” Davis, on the other hand, believes that corporal punishment breeds shame and fear, stifling a child’s ability to express themselves and learn from their mistakes.
Instead of resorting to corporal punishment, mental health experts like Ross Greene advocate for a collaborative and proactive approach. This alternative method focuses on understanding the root causes of a child’s behavior and working with them to find solutions. By implementing problem-solving strategies and fostering trust and open communication, parents and schools can address behavioral concerns effectively without resorting to physical punishment. Schools that have transitioned to this approach have reported better outcomes and significant reductions in disciplinary issues.
Jeffrey, a former school administrator who used to administer corporal punishment, witnessed the harm it caused firsthand. He questioned its effectiveness as he saw no significant behavioral changes in students but noticed the long-term negative impact it had on their well-being. He observed trauma, humiliation, and teasing from peers as a result of paddling.
It is crucial to prioritize the well-being and development of children by adopting alternative approaches to discipline. Collaborative problem-solving methods offer a more effective and ethical way to address behavioral concerns, allowing children to grow and learn in a safe and supportive environment.
