Should schools allow corporal punishment?
An Argumentative Essay
By: Czarina Mae Belen, Kyla Cheska Norioste, Lanah Zain Fabular
As we all may know, corporal punishment is a form of discipline intended to make a
person feel physically hurt. This includes slapping, hitting, shaking, punching, spanking, kicking
choking, and other ways of intentionally bringing about some level of discomfort or agony.
Some say that corporal punishment is a way of disciplining students; it outlines expectations
clearly and motivates students to behave. However, it affects the student’s behavior by adapting
what they’ve experienced. As the argument continues, the question remains: Should schools
allow corporal punishment? This essay states that corporal punishment should not be allowed in
schools. Here are some of the following reasons why;
While some argue that corporal punishment is an effective method of teaching children
discipline and respect, research suggest that it may have the opposite effect. There is a
correlation between corporal punishment and aggressive behavior, according to numerous
studies. When students witness corporal punishment being used, they may think or learn that the
use of physical force is an effective or good way to solve problems or get whatever they want,
this can lead to an increase in aggressive behavior. Children’s aggressive behavior was assessed
in 20 studies and six independent samples. Most were undertaken in early childhood. In five of
the six samples, physical punishment predicted increases in aggressive behavior over time
(National Library of Medicine, 2021). They may came to accept that the use of physical force is
a good form of discipline rather than learning more effective and less aggressive ways to manage
behavior. Increased aggression can be a way to cope with their emotions. “Almost 6 out of 10
public schools reported “increased incidents of classroom disruptions from student misconduct”
and 48% reported increased “acts of disrespect towards teachers and staff.” About half
reported more “rowdiness outside of the classroom.”(Based on the US Department of Education
Survey in 2022). Children or individuals may also become more aggressive as a way to seek
revenge or retaliate against those who have punished them physically.
Secondly, it has a negative effect on the emotional wellbeing. The severe fear and anxiety
that can result from corporal punishment can cause long-term emotional trauma and elevated
stress levels in other areas of life. As a result of internalizing the negative messages sent by the
punishment, people may develop low self-esteem as well as feelings of worthlessness and
insecurity. “If you believe that you can shake your children or slap them across the face and then
smooth things over gradually by smothering them with love, you are mistaken,” says lead study
author Jennifer E. Lansford of the Social Science Research Institute at Duke University.
Relationships may become strained and trust may be lost as a result of the punishment, which
may also cause feelings of resentment and anger towards the one receiving it. A statement by
J.E. Lansford says “It’s not shocking, I guess. I was hit as a child. Today I struggle with
generalized anxiety disorder and depression. My first suicide attempt at the age of 12 was a
direct result of the physical and emotional abuse. Being hit communicated that I was worthless.
There are still days that I believe it.”
Additionally, research has demonstrated that because corporal punishment causes such a
great deal of emotional distress, those who have experienced it are more likely to develop mental
health conditions like depression, anxiety orders, and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder).
Lastly, the concern for the safety of the student. The primary concern is the possibility of
injury. Physical force can cause bruises, welts, and other visible marks on the child’s body. An
example of the case is this scenario A girl in Mississippi was paddled in sixth grade: “[The
coach] hit me so hard I felt nauseous at my stomach. I was mad because I remember I came
home to take a shower, and I was like, I’m going to look and see if I have bruises. And I looked
in the mirror and I had bruises all over, and I said, ‘Mama, come look.’”214 Her mother took her
immediately to the local hospital’s emergency department for medical care,215 and also reported
the incident to the sheriff’s office.216 (Human Rights Watch, 2008) Corporal punishment such as
broken bones, internal bleeding, and head trauma on severe cases. These injuries can result in
long-term health problems, and in extreme cases, death. Thus, it is crucial to prioritize students’
safety and well-being by looking for alternative forms of discipline such a restorative justice
procedures, behavioral interventions that emphasize teaching self-control and appropriate
behavior, and positive reinforcement. There are methods out there that the school should use
instead of implementing corporal punishment. For instance, PBIS (Positive Behavior
Interventions and Supports) focuses on teaching and reinforcing positive behavior through a
school-wide system of expectations and rewards, SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) which helps
students manage stress and improve academic performance. Peer meditation that trains students
to mediate conflicts and et cetera. The best way of dealing with school misbehavior is by
preventing it. Schools with good discipline not only correct misbehavior but also teach
appropriate behavior and coping skills. (These method are both safer and effective than physical
punishment.
In conclusion, corporal punishment in school should be abolished. While some argue that
it discourages misbehavior and teaches discipline, the negative consequences outweigh the
benefits. Corporal punishment can cause physical and emotional harm, as well as damage to a
student’s self-esteem, and perpetuate a cycle of violence. Furthermore, it is a violation of human
rights and goes against educational principles, which should prioritize nurturing and fostering
growth in students. As educators, we must work hard to foster a safe and supportive learning
environment that encourages positive behavior through effective discipline strategies such as
communication, positive reinforcement, and restorative justice practices. It is time for schools to
abandon outdated and ineffective forms of punishment in favor of more effective and humane
method of discipline.
You Can’t Unhit a Child: Anxiety and Corporal Punishment [Link]
cant-unhit-a-child-anxiety-and-corporal-punishment#2
National Library of Medicine [Link]
American Psychological Association [Link]
US Department of Education Survey, Year 2022
[Link]
Human Rights Work Organization [Link]
Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports [Link]
of-positive-behavior-supports-interventions/
Social-Emotional Learning [Link]
what-you-need-to-know
Peer Meditation [Link]
peer_mediation/
