Corporal Punishment in Nigerian Schools from Psychological Perspective: Issues and Recommendations

Abstract

This paper examines the use of corporal punishments from psychological positions. Focusing on the rationales developed in support of corporal punishment in pedagogy, the paper argues that the punishment, both in its function and nature, is less an effective deterrent in correcting delinquent behaviours. The paper suggests some positive and non-corporal methods of correcting student’s misbehaviour and improving achievements both in Nigerian schools and elsewhere. The purpose of this paper is to (1) highlight the harms and ineffectiveness of corporal punishment and (2) illuminate the corrective techniques for stopping and changing undesirable behaviour, in any settings (schools and homes), by individuals (teachers, parents and other caregivers, authority figures and strangers) or groups. This paper is intended to appeal to anyone who deals with educational matters, including social psychologists, legal scholars, sociologists, and policy makers at national and international level to use alternative disciplinary strategy.

Keywords: Corporal Punishment, Human Rights Law, Nigerian Schools, Psychological Perspective