Slippering

L'Ex%C3%A9cution de la Punition de Fouet by Jean-Baptiste Debret

Slippering refers to a form of corporal punishment that involves hitting the buttocks, or sometimes the hands, with a slipper or plimsoll. This method of punishment has been used in various settings, including domestic environments, schools, and institutions. The practice is most commonly associated with the United Kingdom, where it was a popular form of school discipline until the late 20th century. Slippering is considered less severe than other forms of corporal punishment, such as caning, due to the relatively soft and flexible nature of the slipper used.

History[edit | edit source]

The use of slippering as a disciplinary measure dates back to the early 19th century in the United Kingdom. It was seen as a less harsh alternative to the cane or the birch, and was often administered for minor infractions. In the domestic setting, parents would use slippering as a convenient method of punishment, as slippers were readily available. In schools, teachers and headmasters would use slippering for a range of misdemeanors, from incomplete homework to misbehavior in class.

Method[edit | edit source]

The typical method of slippering involves the person administering the punishment swinging a slipper by hand to strike the buttocks of the person being punished. The individual receiving the punishment might be standing, bending over a piece of furniture, or lying down. In some cases, particularly in schools, the student might be required to remove their trousers or skirt to increase the humiliation associated with the punishment, though this practice varied by institution and era.

Legal and Social Perspectives[edit | edit source]

The legality and social acceptance of slippering have changed significantly over time. In the United Kingdom, corporal punishment in state schools was banned in 1986, with private schools following suit in 1999. This effectively ended the practice of slippering in educational settings. In the domestic sphere, the legality of slippering as a form of punishment is more ambiguous and varies by jurisdiction. It often falls under broader laws regarding child discipline and abuse.

Critics of slippering argue that it is a form of child abuse and can cause physical and psychological harm. Proponents, however, have viewed it as a quick and effective disciplinary tool that, when used appropriately, does not cause lasting damage.

Cultural References[edit | edit source]

Slippering has been depicted in various forms of British media, reflecting its once-commonplace status in society. It appears in literature, films, and television shows, often evoking nostalgia for a bygone era or serving as a critique of outdated disciplinary methods.