Should punishments for cheating in school be harsher?

For centuries adults have used corporal punishments as a means to discourage poor behavior. Although many countries have banned corporal punishment, there are some that still allow teachers and parents to employ these tactics. Today, nineteen states in the US allow corporal punishment in public institutions. "Physical pain, embarrassment, and fear are strong deterrents for the person who receives corporal punishment and for those who witness it" (Josphine, Legal Beagle, 2018). Therefore, proponents believe that corporal punishment is an effective deterrent of poor behavior. In addition, corporal punishment is a cheap and efficient way to teach a child structure and discipline.

However, news stories about child abuse commonly raise questions about the costs of corporal punishment and whether it should remain legal. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that "parents, schools, and caregivers refrain from using any type of physical punishment with children. They report corporal punishment is ineffective over the long-term and leads to negative outcomes" (Morin, Very Well Family, 2108). Still, many educators use various types of physical punishment, including spanking, slapping, pinching, pulling, and hitting with an object in school. These actions can have negative effects on students including: worsening their behavior, lowering their IQ, and causing mental illness. Instead, teachers should use methods that entice the child to control themselves. This can be done by taking away their privileges, placing them in 'time outs', and assigning chores.

Therefore, I believe that corporal punishment should be banned in all schools. Many schools in America punish students by giving them a detention. This forces the child to think about their actions for a prolonged period of time while missing out on other opportunities. Also, if I was a parent, I would not feel comfortable with allowing teachers to hit my child if he was caught cheating. Physically disciplining a child can quickly turn into abuse. There is not enough supervision in the classroom to ensure educators don't cross the line. Therefore, legalizing corporal punishment would be a mistake.