Why Should You Not Punish Children?

Have you ever seen, heard or read about children's punishment? Definitely, bitter feelings you have had. When I read in Yahoo that a mother was filmed dragging her daughter by her hair and smacking her repeatedly, my heart goes with that little girl and her feelings of suffering, pain and unsafe. Unfortunately, she wasn't the first and she won't be the last! But I wish this article helps children around the world to feel safe in their homes. In this article you will read about what is punishment, physical and emotional types of punishment, what should you not punish children, and how to teach kids without punishment.

 


What Is Punishment?

It seems some people (I wish not you) choose to punish their children to teach them. Are you kind of parents or guardians to punish your kids?  This article will discuss the effects that punishment has on a child's mental health and development, as well as some tips for avoiding punishment. 

Punishing is a long with agony, suffering, and pain. punishment is described as "suffering, agony, or loss that acts as retribution" or as "severe, hard or catastrophic treatment". Taking a punishment is defined in the Cambridge dictionary as being damaged because of rough treatment. Punishment is a rough method and it's not a fair manner. 

            Why Should Not Punish Children?

Are you a parent who worries about how to teach your kids discipline? If so, I like to tell you that punishment doesn't work. Values you're trying to instill in your children would not be possible with suffering and pain which stay in their minds, and consequently, in their whole life. It is important to be aware of the potential effects that punishing children can have. Punishment is disastrous and has negative impacts on a child’s mental health. Furthermore, it can lead to feelings of anxiety, guilt, and worthlessness. If punishment is used excessively, it can damage a child’s sense of self-esteem and cause them to develop behavioral problems. Punishment is ineffective in correcting kids' behavior and is not a way to grow or learn. Additionally, punishment harms kids emotionally and physically. Besides, the unexpected effects of verbal or physical punishment have negative effects on a child's self-esteem & social skills. 

It is not recommended any type of punishment. Verbal reprimands are a kind of punishment, too. And has its destructive effects. According to a study, verbal punishment to regulate or correct behavior that causes emotional pain can be irritating, belligerent, and detrimental to kids in the long run. Additionally, verbal punishment can lead to misbehavior, lying, stealing, or fighting.

Punishment has negative effects on a child's mental health. It is not recommended and should not be used in rare or extreme circumstances. It is important to remember that punishment should not be used as a treatment method. If your kid feels that they are being constantly punished for their actions, they may start to rebel against authority figures and refuse to listen to rules or directions. Additionally, punishment can also lead to feelings of anxiety and insecurity in children. If a child is constantly being told that they are bad or that they have done something wrong, they may start to believe that they are truly unworthy or undeserving of love and approval. Finally, punishment can also lead to physical aggression in your kids. If a child is constantly being hit or spanked as a form of punishment, they may start to believe that violence is an acceptable way to solve problems or get what they want. It is important to be aware of these potential effects before deciding.

   How To Teach Kids Without Punishment?

Regardless of the method, one of the most common effects of punishment is that it can lead children to resentment and defiance. It is important to make the right decision even when you're angry. Be cool and kind. 

Try to tell your child what they did is not right, and why it is not acceptable and help them to understand the consequences of their actions. It's vital to show them that they are good enough and be loved even in the worst situation. You don't like their action at that time, not their character. This can be effective for kids. The goal is to allow children to grow, learn, and reflect on their behavior. 

The more rewards the children receive for righteousness, the more motivated they are to have good manners. Kids like to have feelings of merit and worthiness. And these do not happen by punishment. It would be more effective if you praise good behavior and reward kids for their efforts. Besides, try to have a consistent and fair manner with clear rules that are explained to kids. Handling disciplinary challenges with positive reinforcement can be a good alternative to any kind of punishment. For example, if you like to teach them to tidy their whole room, reinforce them for part of the tidiness they have done. Reinforcement is not need to be big as buying something. It can be a sign of praising as verbally, or your body language as a smile, eye contact, etc. 

It is important to make sure kids understand what they did right or wrong. Ultimately, the goal of reinforcement is to teach kids to make better choices and to help them develop into responsible and respectful adults. Remember a good society is a collection of good people and a family is a small society. A good society is a place where everyone has the opportunity to reach their potential and make a meaningful life. 


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