While some view childhood punishments as badges of honour, others have endured profound trauma that continues to haunt them throughout their lives. as a form of punishment. The tragic outcome of this heartbreaking event brings to attention the perennial debate on corporal punishment in our society.
Corporal punishment in Asian cultures, including Singapore, is deeply rooted in our historical and cultural traditions. Values include obedience, respect for authority and strict discipline. Research indicates that physical punishment can lead to increased aggression, antisocial behaviour, anxiety, depression and lower self-esteem.
Also, just because someone appears to be functioning well does not mean they have not been adversely affected by their experiences. The impact of corporal punishment can present itself in many different ways, including difficulties in forming healthy relationships, managing emotions and coping with stress.Parents often resort to physical punishments out of frustration or a lack of alternative methods of discipline.
Research has shown that positive parenting is effective. A meta-analysis published in the Psychological Bulletin revealed that positive parenting practices are linked to higher academic achievement, improved mental health and better social skills in children. The pyramid emphasises that effective correction relies on effective teaching, which in turn depends on a strong parent-child relationship. The foundation of the pyramid is the parents' personal well-being, underscoring the importance of a healthy, positive mindset when parenting.Transitioning from corporal punishment to positive parenting can be challenging for parents who were raised with it. However, with the right support, it is entirely possible.