Physical Punishment and Child Development in Babcock University, Nigeria: An Evaluation of ‘Not Sparing The Rod'

Abstract

Despite the vast existing research on the negative effects of physical punishment, this study attempted to investigate the forms of physical punishment parents administer to their children. The aim was to determine if this mode of discipline has a negative effect on parent- child relationship, as well as the opinion of children as to whether physical punishment helps them develop positive behavior in the home and the society.

Using descriptive survey research method, structured questionnaire were purposively administered to parents and children within the Babcock University Community, Nigeria. The data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).

The result of this investigation showed that 74% of parents within the Babcock University community adopt physical punishment as a mode of child discipline. However, only 52% agreed that children who are physically punished are better behaved than those who are not.

Finally, all 74% of parents, and 74% of children agreed that physical punishment does not hamper parent-child relationship or interaction.