Corporal punishment bullies children into obedience and submission through fear, humiliation

Corporal punishment is not only illegal but is also the wrong way to correct children, because it bullies them into obedience and submission by instilling fear in them, humiliating and harming them, Commissioner for Children Pauline Miceli has warned.

In a statement, the commissioner said that children have a right not to be subjected to inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, including corporal punishment.

“Our Criminal Code states clearly that using corporal punishment as a means to correct a child in a school or institution is a criminal offence.

“Correcting children is part and parcel of their education and upbringing. Corrective measures are fair and effective only when they are meted out in response to error or misbehaviour by children, and when they respect the dignity and selfworth of the child.

“Corporal punishment does not benefit the child, but merely helps the adult assert power over the child. It thus harms not only the child, but also the relationship between the child and the adult. By building a strong relationship of mutual trust and respect, where the child freely looks up to the adult as a role model, a parent, carer or educator who is able to correct the child without ever resorting to physical or verbal violence.”

The Office of the Commissioner for Children has said it constantly strives to convey this message to all those who care for children. It will continue to promote positive parenting and raise awareness, as it is currently doing on various local stations and social media.