A Study on Corporal Punishment in Schools at Sivakasi

Abstract

Corporal punishment has been classified as an act of violence and abuse on children. Strictly defined ‘corporal punishment’ is the infliction of pain intended to change a person’s behaviour or to punish them. Though it mainly refers to physical pain either through hitting or forcing the child to sit /stand in uncomfortable positions; an evolving definition also includes within its ambit wrongful confinement, verbal insults, threats and humiliation, which are used with impunity and in utter disregard to the law of land and principles of learning. Children due to fear are often silent and submit to violence without questioning. They sometimes show signs of deep hurt in their behavior but this often goes unnoticed, perpetuating further violence on them. Corporal punishment not only affects the emotional behaviour and academic performance of a child, but also leads to reduction in self-esteem and dignity of child.

Teachers and Parental Position on the Interdiction of Corporal Punishment in the Teaching and Learning of Mathematics

“…The reasons that were given by the various researchers suggest that it should not be banned entirely but then measures must be taken to appropriate its usage or application. Kalaivani [29] also stated some reasons why corporal punishment is being used. He stated that lack of accountability towards children in schools can lead to teacher's usage of corporal punishment in schools.…”

“…Kalaivani stated that children obsessed with fear normally don't complain about punishment being meted to them [29]. They just accept it without any question, but they sometimes show signs of deep hurt in their behaviour.…”