It is sometimes suggested that teachers should be allowed to physically punish if student misbehaves at school. Although, this approach may seem to offer a quick solution, I firmly believe that it should not be permitted.
Admittedly, supporters of corporal punishment make some valid points. They argue that it is a powerful deterrent, as students will think twice before breaking the rules, and that it stops bad behavior immediately. However, these benefits are short-lived and come a high cost.
First, children should feel safe in their learning environment. A classroom in which pupils fear being hit is not conductive to learning, because students are more likely to focus on punishment than on understanding their lessons. Moreover, rather than respecting authority, children may come to loathe it and rebel which often makes misbehaviour worse.
Second, hitting teaches children that physical punishment is acceptable. Those who experience it may later use the same methods on their own children thereby perpetuating a cycle of abuse. In addition, this type of punishment is belittling and controlling, and it can seriously damage person’s self-esteem.
In conclusion, although corporal punishment may stop bad behavior quickly it harms children’s emotional wellbeing and creates long-term problems. Teachers should therefore rely on non-violent methods of discipline.