Corporal punishment

Corporal punishment is a form of physical punishment that involves the deliberate infliction of pain as retribution for an offence, or for the purpose of disciplining or reforming a wrongdoer, or to deter attitudes or behaviour deemed unacceptable. The term usually refers to methodically striking the offender with an implement, whether in judicial, domestic, or educational settings.

Definition

Corporal punishment can be defined as physical punishment that is meted out by an authority figure as a disciplinary measure. This can include spanking, paddling, caning, flogging, or whipping. The punishment is intended to cause physical pain, without any lasting physical injury. It is most often used where there is a substantial disparity of power between punisher and punished.

History

Corporal punishment was recorded as early as the 10th Century BC in Book of Proverbs attributed to Solomon: "He that spareth the rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him correcteth him betimes." With the growth of civilizations, corporal punishment became more organized and regulated. From the 16th century onwards, new trends were seen in corporal punishment. Judicial punishments were increasingly turned into public spectacles, with public beatings of criminals intended as a deterrent to other would-be offenders.

Modern Use

In the modern era, corporal punishment has been largely rejected in the western world, while remaining in use by some other societies. In many schools worldwide, corporal punishment has been outlawed, but domestic corporal punishment is still commonly used in many countries.

Effects

The effects of corporal punishment have been the subject of many studies. These studies tend to show that corporal punishment does not teach children the reasons for correct behavior, and instead may harm their self-esteem and mental health.

See Also

• Physical abuse
• Child discipline
• School corporal punishment
• Judicial corporal punishment

References

Corporal punishment Resources
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