The use of force to correct the misbehavior of children is something that was exceedingly common-place in the past however in modern times corporal punishment is seen as an unethical way of instilling discipline. In this essay I will discuss both views and provide my own opinion on the matter.
Many advocates of corporal punishment stand by this stance due to the effectiveness that physical punishment has on disciplining children. Punishment works on the very simple principal that all living things have an aversion to pain. The brain naturally tends to avoid actions that bring pain upon ones’ body, this is a concept that even toddlers understand. As such, when a child misbehaves and is beaten for their actions, they quickly understand that repeating similar acts in the furture will also result in punishment so they start adhearing to the rules. Another reason why people think physical punishment is acceptable is because they have experienced it themselves while growing up. People who grew up in households that used corporal punishment tend to follow in the footsteps of their parents when rearing children.
On the other hand, those who oppose physical punishment do so because they see it as an unethical means of discipline. A multitude of psychological studies have highlighted the adverse effects such punishments can have on children. They learn to fear punishment rather than understand why their actions are wrong when physical force is used; this method of disciplining children does not instill empathy upon them so they end up learning to avoid getting caught rather than understanding and learning why they should not behave in such a manner. The use of force also creates a power dynamic between parents and children, where children feel like they can not confide in their parents even when they need help. All of these reasons are why many countries have outlawed the use of corporal punishment in many settings including schools. Some counties also concider the use of such force as child abuse for which the parents could lose custody of their child or face prison time.
I personally agree with the later opinion. I do not think there are any justifiable reasons for an adult to place physical harm upon a child. Adults are much more intelligent than children and therefore should be able to discipline children without the need for force.