Physical Punishment
What is physical punishment?
Physical punishment is the use of spanking, hitting or any other form of physical discipline.
What is physical abuse?
When a child is hurt or injured by a parent or another grownup who is taking care of them, this abuse is shown by if a child has red marks, bruises, cuts, broken bones or is hurt in any other way while a parent is punishing them.
What is domestic violence?
Violence between any intimate partnership.
How can you tell someone is going to be violent?
You CANNOT!
Is physical punishment against the law?
Physical punishment is not against the law.
Is physical abuse against the law?
Yes, it is against the law.
When does domestic violence happen?
It can happen anywhere, at anytime, for any reason.
Who can you can call when child abuse is suspected?
CPS (child protective services)
What leads to physical punishment?
A way to stop or change a child’s behavior when a parent does not like the child’s behavior.
What leads to physical abuse?
1. Parents do not know any other way to discipline their children.
2. Parents may be under a lot of stress at home and work which could lead to taking it out on others.
3. Some parents were abused by their parents and learned that violence is an OK way to solve their problems.
What are the statistics for children exposed to domestic violence?
One in ten children in the U.S. are exposed to domestic violence, and the majority of them are under six years old.
Where can families and kids go for help when physical abuse is happening in their home?
Going to a trusted adult and asking for help.
What kind of feelings could the child experience with physical punishment?
Some children say that they feel scared, sad, confusion, nervous and/or angry when their parents spank/hit them.
Who is physically abused?
Physical abuse happens in many families across the United States. It does not matter what color a family is, how much they make, where they live or what their religious beliefs are.
How are children impacted by witnessing domestic violence?
Most children who witness domestic violence experience some symptoms associated with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
What do children do to avoid abuse?
Not making caregiver(s) upset, taking care of their responsibilities (chores, schoolwork, etc) to name a few.