Hi Darcey, it’s me again. Well you really like to throw up the big ones! (Courier-Sun letters page, Jan 2).
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
So, in discussing corporal punishment of children, several factors need to be taken into account. Physical punishment of children contravenes the United Nations Convention on the rights of the child, which Australia has ratified. Apart from this technicality, it has been shown to have adverse long term psychological effects, and carries the risk of physical punishment escalating into child abuse.
Many people, including yourself condone this type of punishment in the belief that it is an effective disciplinary strategy. It is believed that those who were hit as children are more likely to hit their own children, and find it acceptable.
It really is possible to bring up respectful and well-disciplined children without resorting to hitting them.
You are right Darcy, when they do well a bit of praise goes a long way. And respect and self-esteem can also be fostered without violence.
Some of the most wonderful young adults I’ve watched grow up here have done so without corporal punishment and are fantastic functioning adults making their way in the world in a peaceful fashion.
You are right again when you say parenting is a huge responsibility. I fully endorsed my nine-yea- old in his wish to rally for climate change. I’m raising my child to feel like he is a part of the greater world, and can have a voice for the environment, rather than just learning to look out for himself.
If those in power actually had a climate change policy then maybe the children wouldn’t feel so responsible. It’s their world they’re fighting for when we’ll be long gone. If you try and whack me for my parenting there might be trouble.
Elisa Hall
Bellingen