The Reviled Effects of Excessive Punishment on Students: An Early Trauma

In today's society, instances of harmful punishment in schools are increasingly highlighted and condemned. This essay examines the detrimental effects of excessive punishment, particularly on young students, drawing from a vivid account of a personal experience.

My younger sister, aged eleven, faced a harrowing experience on her second day of school. Upon returning to the classroom after a short break, she was beaten thrice by a teacher for not adhering to the rule of being in class after the bell. The incident had a profound and painful impact on her, compounded by witnessing the laughter of her peers. Her distress persisted for over an hour, a clear testament to the lasting trauma such practices can inflict.

The Impact of Trauma

The episode befell a young and sensitive child, demonstrating the severe consequences of inheriting such harsh discipline at a tender age. According to a wise quote by Armstrong, 'Every child has the right to go to school without fear or stay home without thinking of being hit.' This quote encapsulates the atrocities faced by students who experience excessive punishment in schools.

Comparative Analogy to Sheep Herding

When herding sheep, the master enforces strict discipline through harsh punishment, preventing any ‘misbehavior’ that deviates from the norms. Similar to how sheep memorize and adhere to these rules, students exerted with strict punishments develop a mindset of fear and obedience, possibly leading to harmful conduct as they mature.

Harsh discipline in early childhood is a critical aspect that students can relate to. The mind, at a young age, is malleable and susceptible to the oppressive atmosphere created by physical and vocal punishments. Children internalize these fears, making it exceedingly hard to break free from such shackles. Failure to overcome such experiences often results in actions that echo the violence and immorality witnessed.

Negative Consequences of Harsh Punishment

Beyond the psychological trauma, numerous negative repercussions of excessive punishment are noteworthy:

Loss of Credibility: Teachers who resort to harsh methods risk losing credibility, fostering a climate of fear and hatred among students. Lack of Confidence: Students may suffer from a profound lack of confidence, impacting their self-esteem and academic performance. Physical Abuse: Parents may not fully appreciate the extent of physical harm inflicted, often only realizing the gravity of the situation later. Severe Scars: In extreme cases, unnatural punishments can result in permanent physical scars or even death.

Personal Reflection and Advocacy

Fortunately, I have never been subjected to such experiences. This is partly due to my persistent advocacy against such ill practices since my school days. I am confident in never participating or allowing such unethical acts to occur. Discipline is indeed crucial, but the use of a leather belt to punish students over trivial matters like an extra chocolate is a form of madness.

Advice to Students

Excessive punishment in school is a punishable offense by law. Students should inform their parents about such incidents, ensuring that they are reported and addressed appropriately. Like the sheep that follow the herd, one must not be a passive participant in these traumatic scenarios. Advocacy and awareness are pivotal in combating such practices and promoting safe and inclusive learning environments.

Working together, we can ensure that children grow up in a world where fear and violence are replaced by respect and understanding.

Regards,
Kshitij Chitransh