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.

The call to bring back caning often stems from a nostalgic belief that “it worked in the old days”. However, times have changed. Today’s children are growing up in complex social and digital environments, often grappling with family stress, academic pressure, social media influence, and emotional distress. Responding to such challenges with physical punishment only deepens fear and resentment, rather than fostering respect or moral understanding.

Instead of punitive measures, schools should focus on strengthening their mental health and counselling support systems. Every school should have access to counsellors or trained teachers who can identify early signs of distress, behavioural issues, or potential violence.

Teachers also need training in positive discipline, conflict resolution, and emotional regulation – approaches that build empathy and accountability rather than fear.

Discipline begins at home. Parents play a crucial role in shaping a child’s values, behaviour, and emotional control. It is neither fair nor realistic to expect teachers to shoulder the full responsibility for children’s conduct when parental guidance, consistency, and communication are the foundations of good discipline. Schools can support but they cannot replace the role of parents in raising emotionally healthy and responsible young people.

Discipline should never be equated with punishment. True discipline involves guiding young people to understand the consequences of their actions and to develop internal self-control, empathy, and moral reasoning. These qualities cannot be nurtured through fear or force.

A safe and compassionate school is one where discipline is firm but fair, and where emotional wellbeing is prioritised alongside academic achievement.

DATUK DR ANDREW MOHANRAJ

President

Malaysian Mental Health Association