“Power based on love is a thousand times more effective and permanent than the one derived from fear of punishment.” – Mahatma Gandhi

How many times have we meted out punishment to discipline our children? Instead of forgiving them, is it advisable for parents to punish children for a fault they have committed fault?

It would come across as a surprise to parents that punishment does not help in making a child responsible, disciplined or well-behaved. Often, the threat of punishment gives rise of fear in children. They begin to assume that if they do not obey the rules and regulations, they may have to face negative consequences. According to an article titled The Effects of Punishment on Children by Beth Morrisey in kidsdevelopment.co.uk, ‘Punishment does not necessarily teach children why the rules are in place, why the rules are important or how they can act in accordance of the rules. Punishment also does not teach children to be responsible or to take into account the thoughts, needs or experiences of others’.

Fear of being punished or frequent punishment start negatively affecting the outlook of children towards life. Also, punishment disrupts the bonding between parents and children. Parents who frequently punish their children have less influence on them. According an article in www.psychologytoday.com, ‘If, instead, we can stay kind and connected while we set limits, our children will internalize what they’ve lived. They don't resist our guidance, so they feel connected, and they see their impact on others, so they’re considerate and responsible’.

To know more about this topic, flip through the pages of this ClipBook.