Appropriateness of Corporal Punishment

Corporal punishment has raised a heated debate over the years. Corporal punishment can
be defined as a method of punishing learners through inflicting physical pain. There are various
methods of corporal punishment, including slapping, paddling, and hitting. Proponents argue that
it helps in maintaining discipline (Alvarado, 2017). I believe that corporal punishment is not an
appropriate method of behavior management in schools. Corporal punishment has various
drawbacks that make it be inappropriate. One disadvantage of corporal punishment stems from
the fact that6 it destroys the relationship between learners and teachers. As students are punished,
the trust that exists between them and the teachers is destroyed. The implication is that students
are demotivated from learning.
Corporal punishment also destroys the positive learning environment that exists in
schools. When the positive learning environment is destroyed, students may fail to achieve
positive learning outcomes (Layton, 2017). In addition, corporal punishment increases
aggression and defiance in learners. Learners who are exposed to corporal punishment tend to
exhibit various antisocial behaviors. They are also at an increased risk of turning to alcohol and
drug abuse later in their lives. It is important to improve the learning environment that is present
in schools. Healthy relationships between teachers and learners depend on the application of the
appropriate punishment strategy. Corporal punishment is inappropriate and could cause multiple
injuries to learners.
Psychological Impact of Corporal Punishment

Corporal punishment has an adverse effect on a child’s psychological development.
Corporal punishment interferes with the climate of warmth and acceptance that is the foundation
of a positive learning environment (Durrant & Ensom, 2012). Learners perceive corporal
punishment as an act of rejection. The end does not justify the means. Evidently, while corporal
punishment may help in instilling discipline in students, it has adverse psychological effects that
may affect a learner throughout their life (LeFrançois, 2018). Corporal punishment is mainly
triggered by the frustration of the adult or the caregiver as opposed to the child’s misbehavior
(Durrant & Ensom, 2012). Studies indicate that learners who are exposed to different forms of
physical punishment tend to be aggressive. The learners are also more likely to engage in alcohol
and drug abuse in their adolescence.
Corporal Punishment and Management Models
Corporal punishment aligns with Skinner’s behavior modification model. The model is
more corrective in nature. Reinforcement and punishment are important aspects of the model.
Corporal punishments seek to correct certain behaviors that occur in school. Corporal
punishment is thus closely related to Skinner’s behavior modification model.
Instead of capital punishment, I would choose Roger’s humanistic model. The model
seeks to develop self-discipline in learners (LeFrançois, 2018). Rogers was a believer in the fact
that all learners have a desire to know. Children thus need to be accepted unconditionally. The
teacher’s role should be to facilitate as opposed to directing. Instructional strategies involved
include working in groups, role-playing, guided discovery, and enquiry. I think that the model
works well because it centers on the learners. Instruction that is founded on the needs of the
learners is likely to result in positive learning outcomes. Students need to take an active role in
learning as opposed to taking on a passive role.

References

Alvarado B. (2017, July 21). Texas school to begin paddling as punishment. Retrieved from
https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2017/07/21/school-
paddling/499177001/
Durrant, J., & Ensom, R. (2012). Physical punishment of children: lessons from 20 years of
research. CMAJ, 184(12), 1373-1377.
Layton J. (2017, January 18). Corporal Punishment Continues in U.S. Schools, Despite Its
Ineffectiveness. Retrieved from https://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/human-
nature/behavior/corporal-punishment-continues-us-schools-its-ineffectiveness.htm
LeFrançois, G. R. (2018). Psychology for teaching (2nd ed.). Retrieved from
https://content.ashford.edu