Caning children risks doing more harm than good

THE recent tragic incident in which a 14-year-old student fatally stabbed a schoolmate has deeply shocked the nation and understandably prompted calls for stronger disciplinary measures in schools. While the intention to ensure safety is commendable, the proposed reintroduction of corporal punishment in schools deserves careful reconsideration. Reintroducing caning risks doing more harm than good in the long term.

Physical punishment may produce short-term compliance but often leads to long-term emotional and behavioural consequences. Children who experience physical punishment are more likely to develop aggression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and defiant behaviour – the very problems we hope to prevent.