Reflections on the Use of Corporal Punishment to Curb Indiscipline of Learners in a School Setting

Abstract

Although there are different strategies for tackling the issue of indiscipline of learners, the use of corporal punishment has been very popular and contentious. While many people favour its use to curb the indiscipline of learners, due to the associated advantages, another school of thought views it to be too harsh for learners and thus should be banned. In this paper, the meaning of corporal punishment, its forms, causes, and advantages, particularly, the fact that it can deter a learner from indulging in wrong behaviour and help him/her learn better, among others, are discussed. The disadvantages inherent in the use of the approach, such as the injury it inflicts on learners, among others, are also examined. The paper recommends the use of other approaches to curb the indiscipline of learners, while a regulated corporal punishment that will not violate the rules and strategies to achieve effective management of the indiscipline of learners, is also recommended for the schools’ administrators.