Prohibiting Corporal Punishment in the Philippine Education System

 Violation of Children's Rights

- The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) explicitly
states that children have the right to protection from all forms of violence,
including physical punishment. The Philippines ratified this convention, making
it imperative to align domestic practices with international standards.

- Smacking children violates their fundamental rights to dignity, respect, and

physical integrity. Physical punishment can have long-lasting negative effects on
a child's self-esteem, emotional well-being, and overall development.
Cited at Ratification of the UNCRC by the Philippines:
https://treaties.un.org/Pages/ViewDetails.aspx?src=TREATY&mtdsg_no=IV-
11&chapter=4&clang=_en

 Ineffectiveness of Corporal Punishment

- Research consistently demonstrates that corporal punishment is ineffective in
promoting long-term behavior change. It may temporarily suppress undesirable
behavior but fails to teach children appropriate alternatives or address the
underlying causes of their misbehavior.
Cited at Gershoff, E. T. (2013). Spanking and child development: We know enough
now to stop hitting our children. Child development perspectives, 7(3), 133-137.
doi: 10.1111/cdep.12038

- Positive discipline methods, such as communication, guidance, and logical

consequences, have been proven to be more effective in shaping desirable
behaviors and fostering positive relationships between teachers and students.
Cited at Larzelere, R. E., Kuhn, B. R., & Johnson, B. (2004). The intervention
selection bias: An underrecognized confound in intervention research.
Psychological Bulletin, 130(2), 289-303. doi: 10.1037/0033-2909.130.2.289

 Emotional and Psychological Harm

- Smacking naughty children can lead to the development of fear, anxiety, and
trauma. It undermines the teacher-student relationship, eroding trust and
creating an environment of fear rather than one conducive to learning.
Cited at Gershoff, E. T., & Grogan-Kaylor, A. (2016). Spanking and child outcomes:
Old controversies and new meta-analyses. Journal of Family Psychology, 30(4),
453-469. doi: 10.1037/fam0000191

- Children who experience corporal punishment are more likely to exhibit

aggressive behavior, struggle academically, and have increased levels of

Ai Commissions 2023
 depression and anxiety. This highlights the potential long-term negative impacts
of physical punishment on a child's mental health.
Cited at Afifi, T. O., Mota, N. P., Dasiewicz, P., MacMillan, H. L., & Sareen, J. (2012).
Physical punishment and mental disorders: Results from a nationally
representative US sample. Pediatrics, 130(2), e184-e192. doi: 10.1542/peds.2011-
2947

POSSIBLE ARGUMENT OF OPPOSING SIDE WITH COUNTERARGUMENT

1. Traditional Discipline Methods:
a. Proponents may argue that corporal punishment has been a longstanding disciplinary
tool and is deeply rooted in cultural and traditional practices in the Philippines.
Counterargument: While corporal punishment may have been a traditional disciplinary
method, it is crucial to reassess its effectiveness and consider its potential negative
consequences. Cultural practices should evolve to align with contemporary understandings
of child development and well-being.
b. They might contend that physical punishment can be an effective deterrent and quickly
correct misbehavior, leading to immediate compliance.
Counterargument: Effective discipline should focus on teaching children appropriate
behavior and problem-solving skills rather than relying on fear and physical punishment.
Implementing alternative disciplinary methods can promote a positive and supportive
learning environment.

2. Respect for Authority:

a. Supporters may claim that allowing teachers to use physical punishment reinforces the
concept of authority and respect for teachers and school rules.
Counterargument: Respect for authority can be fostered through positive relationships,
effective communication, and modeling appropriate behavior. Respect should be earned
through mutual trust and understanding, rather than instilled through fear or physical
force.
b. They might argue that without the fear of physical consequences, students may become
more disobedient and disrespectful towards their teachers.
Counterargument: Respect should not be equated with fear. By promoting non-violent
disciplinary methods, teachers can create a safe and supportive environment where
students feel valued and respected, leading to better long-term relationships between
teachers and students.

Ai Commissions 2023
 3. Deterrence and Classroom Management:
a. Proponents might argue that the threat of physical punishment can deter students from
engaging in disruptive or inappropriate behavior, thus improving classroom management
and creating a conducive learning environment.
Counterargument: While physical punishment may provide short-term compliance, it does
not address the root causes of misbehavior or teach children appropriate alternatives.
Positive discipline methods focus on understanding the reasons behind misbehavior and
promoting self-discipline and intrinsic motivation for better long-term behavioral
outcomes.
b. They may contend that alternative disciplinary methods, such as positive reinforcement,
may not always be effective in addressing severe behavioral issues.
Counterargument: Effective classroom management can be achieved through a variety of
non-violent strategies, such as clear rules and expectations, consistent consequences,
positive reinforcement, and individualized support. These methods promote self-
regulation, problem-solving skills, and a sense of responsibility among students.

4. Cultural and Parental Preferences:

a. Supporters may assert that corporal punishment aligns with the cultural values and
beliefs of many Filipino families who see it as an appropriate and effective disciplinary
measure.
counterargument: While respecting cultural and parental preferences is important,
children's rights and well-being should be prioritized. International standards and research
emphasize the negative effects of corporal punishment on children's development. It is
crucial to educate parents and caregivers about alternative disciplinary methods that are
effective, non-violent, and aligned with the best interests of the child.
b. They might argue that parents should have the right to choose the disciplinary approach
they believe is best for their children, including physical punishment.
Counterargument: Parental involvement in education is essential, and dialogue with parents
about alternative disciplinary approaches can help bridge cultural differences.
Collaborative efforts between schools and families can promote positive discipline
strategies that are both culturally sensitive and evidence-based, ensuring the well-being
and healthy development of children.

Ai Commissions 2023