Physical Punishment For Children Is Not Relevant In This Time

JAKARTA - Parents of the past may often give children physical punishment if their little ones make mistakes. The goal is to provide a deterrent effect so that children no longer make the same mistakes.

But now, physical punishment is no longer relevant because there are so many negative effects caused, especially in the growth and development of the little one.

"Research shows that physical punishment can have a negative impact both physically and psychologically," said Kasandra Putranto, a Forensic Clinical Psychologist from the University of Indonesia (UI), as quoted by ANTARA.

Citing a study published in 2023, Kasandra said a painful physical punishment would only hurt a child physically and psychologically without guaranteeing improvement in future attitudes.

Compared to using physical punishment to cause trauma and endanger children, parents can use positive disciplinary penalties that are more appropriate to today.

The punishment uses an approach that emphasizes understanding and communication. For example, explaining to children why certain behaviors are unacceptable and helping them understand the consequences.

Punishment can also be done by providing relevant consequences for children's actions.

He gave an example if children break toys, they can't play with the toys for a while, so children understand the relationship between actions and consequences.

We as parents can also provide calm time for children so that they can reflect on their behavior. This is not a punishment, but an opportunity to calm down and think about their actions," he said.

If the child starts to behave badly, parents can divert their child's attention from negative behavior to fun or creative activities.

On the other hand, parents can provide positive mental strengthening through praise or appreciation when the child shows good behavior, with the aim of motivating children to continue to behave positively.

Another option is to involve children in discussions about their behavior and find solutions together. This helps children feel valued and more responsible for their actions.

"Then we have to be a good example for children. Children often imitate adult behavior, so showing desired behavior is an effective way to educate them," said Kasandra.

Meanwhile, the last thing he mentioned was teaching children to understand the feelings of others. Discuss how their actions can affect others and the importance of being kind.