The World Health Organization has declared corporal punishment a global public health issue, citing serious harm to children’s physical and mental health and a link to criminal behavior.
A new report covering 49 low- and middle-income countries found that children who experienced corporal punishment – defined as any use of physical force intended to cause pain or discomfort, however mild – were 24% less likely to be developmentally on track compared to those who were not punished this way.
Globally, around 1.2 billion children face corporal punishment each year. In the past month alone, 17% of those subjected to it experienced severe forms, such as being hit on the head, face, or ears, or being struck hard and repeatedly.
“There is now overwhelming scientific evidence that corporal punishment poses multiple risks to children’s health,” said Etienne Krug, director of the WHO department for health determinants, promotion, and prevention. “It offers no benefits to children’s behavior, development, or wellbeing, nor to parents or societies. Corporal punishment is a global public health concern – it’s time to end this harmful practice to ensure children thrive at home and in school.”
Children exposed to corporal punishment are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and emotional instability, effects that can persist into adulthood and contribute to issues like substance abuse, violence, and suicide.
Among children aged two to 14, self-reported rates of corporal punishment by parents or caregivers in the past month varied widely: from 30% in Kazakhstan and 32% in Ukraine, to 63% in Serbia, 64% in Sierra Leone, and 77% in Togo.
In Africa and Central America, 70% of children experienced corporal punishment at school at some point in their lives, according to the report. Lower rates were seen in the western Pacific region, with around 25% lifetime prevalence. Across all regions, corporal punishment was reported to be common in both primary and secondary schools.
Corporal punishment is often paired with psychological punishment, which includes behaviors that belittle, humiliate, frighten, or ridicule a child. Its widespread acceptance is often rooted in laws, religions, and cultural traditions.
Bryanna Mariñas, a 23-year-old advocate and researcher from the Philippines and a member of the first global youth movement to end violence against children, said: “Corporal punishment is the most common form of violence against children, yet it is rarely discussed. Coming from the Philippines, I know how deeply normalized it is, but what is normalized is not always right.” Mariñas has created a film featuring survivors’ voices to raise awareness of the impact.
Currently, 68 out of 193 countries have fully banned corporal punishment; Sweden was the first to do so in 1979. In the UK, it is prohibited in Scotland and Wales but remains legal in homes in England and Northern Ireland.
For support in the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be reached at 116 123 or via email at jo@samaritans.org or jo@samaritans.ie. In the US, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255. In Australia, Lifeline provides crisis support at 13 11 14. Additional international helplines can be found at befrienders.org.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about the WHOs warning on corporal punishment designed to be clear and helpful
Basic Questions Definitions and Overview
Q What exactly is corporal punishment
A Its any punishment where physical force is used to cause some degree of pain or discomfort like spanking hitting or slapping a child
Q What does the WHO say about spanking and hitting kids
A The World Health Organization strongly warns against it They state that corporal punishment poses serious risks to childrens health development and wellbeing and it should be banned everywhere
Q Is spanking illegal
A It depends on where you live Over 60 countries have fully banned it including in the home Many other places still allow it but major health organizations like the WHO are advocating for a global ban
Questions About the Risks and Effects
Q What are the main risks the WHO is talking about
A The risks fall into a few categories physical injury negative mental health damaged parentchild relationships and teaching children that violence is an acceptable way to solve problems
Q Can spanking really affect a childs brain development
A Yes Research shows that the chronic stress from repeated corporal punishment can negatively impact the developing brain potentially affecting areas responsible for learning reasoning and emotional regulation
Q I was spanked and I turned out fine Why is it a problem now
A This is a very common feeling We now have decades of scientific research that our parents didnt have showing clear links between corporal punishment and negative outcomes The goal isnt to judge past generations but to use our current knowledge to do better for kids today
Practical Questions and Alternatives
Q If I dont spank how do I discipline my child effectively
A Effective discipline focuses on teaching not punishing Great alternatives include using natural consequences logical consequences timeins and setting clear consistent expectations
Q What should I do in the heat of the moment when Im really frustrated
A First focus on regulating your own emotions Take a deep breath count to ten or even walk
