The banning of corporal punishment and all other forms of abuse in J&K schools is a highly overdue and welcome move. Corporal punishment and other forms of abuse have been extensively studied, and the evidence consistently highlights the negative impacts on children’s psychological, social, educational, and physical well-being.
When adults use violence as a means of discipline, children may learn that aggression is an acceptable way to solve problems or control others, perpetuating a cycle of violence.
It is well known that children who experience corporal punishment or abuse are more likely to develop mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Frequent physical punishment is also known to erode a child’s sense of self-worth and lead to low self-esteem. It is also well recognized that children who are subjected to violence may internalize this behavior, leading to increased aggression and hostility in their own interactions.
Abused children may have difficulties forming healthy relationships with peers and adults due to trust issues and a lack of positive role models. Fear of punishment can lead to social withdrawal and isolation, hindering the child’s ability to engage in social activities and make friends. Children who experience abuse may exhibit aggressive or antisocial behavior, leading to conflicts with peers and authority figures.
When it comes to educational Impact, chronic exposure to abuse can interfere with a child’s cognitive development, affecting their ability to concentrate, learn, and retain information. Children subjected to corporal punishment or abuse may have lower academic performance due to stress, anxiety, and disrupted learning environments. Abused children are at a higher risk of dropping out of school, as they may associate the educational setting with negative experiences.
Research consistently shows that corporal punishment is ineffective in achieving positive behavioral change in the long run. It may suppress behavior temporarily but fails to teach appropriate alternatives or address the root causes of misbehavior.
Banning of corporal punishment in Jammu & Kashmor must encourage parents and caregivers to adopt non-violent and constructive discipline techniques, fostering healthier parent-child relationships. Numerous evidence-based alternatives to corporal punishment exist, including positive reinforcement, time-outs, setting clear boundaries, and open communication. These methods have been shown to be more effective in promoting positive behavior and emotional well-being in children.
After this ban announcement, now is the time for effective implementation.
