In reading this question I decided to look up what discipline and punishment meant. One of the definitions for punishment is severe handling or treatment, a penalty inflicted for an offense. Discipline means a punishment inflicted by way of corrections and training. These are two very similar definitions but one serves to correct behavior while the other inflicts harm without a potential learning aspect. Discipline teaches a young child right and wrong without inflicting emotional harm, punishment has the potential to cause harm and in some ways has an intent to harm. Now that being said people can easily use discipline in a wrongful manner, and without balance.
Parents can cross a line in parental authority when they use discipline as a means to control, or inflict bodily harm. This only inflicts emotional harm and fear. Parents can cross a line with how they discipline and what they chose to discipline for. It is about picking the battle.
I really like your post and that you went and actually looked up the definition of the two words. They certainly are similar but have key significant differences. I agree that parents do cross the line and enter into a more abusive, punishing role than disciplinary. I am a martial arts instructor so I see parents dealing with their kids in front of me when the child doesn't behave accordingly during their class. I have definitely seen parents cross the line and start yelling and grabbing their child. It's really quite damaging for a child to be corrected with fear and intimidation. It really doesn't teach self discipline and morals like parents believe it to. nice post!
ReplyDelete