When it comes to parenting, disciplining children is an integral part of the journey.
Parents take it upon themselves to raise well-behaved, well-mannered kids who are loved and respected by all.
Therefore, in a bid to teach appropriate behaviors to children, parents resort to different measures, some of which prove effective, while others go on to do more harm than good.
Having said that, parents must be able to identify the thin line that exists between discipline and child abuse. To do that, you must first understand what abuse is and the different types that can harm your child.
What is child abuse?What makes discipline different from abuse?
Discipline is not something that can be achieved through harsh words, punishment or spanking. While it may provide you with short term results, in the long run, it may take on a form of abuse, affecting a child’s physical and mental health. Discipline, therefore, is all about teaching rules and regulations to kids and following up on the consequences. Abuse on the other hand is when you cross limits to get your way, hurt someone so much that it leads to severe physical, psychological or emotional damage.
