Recently, headlines have been filled with calls to end corporal punishment in Barbadian schools, as echoed in the Barbados TODAY article published on July 14, 2025. While I agree that abuse and uncontrolled violence have no place in our homes or schools, I must ask: Where is the evidence that our society is ready for this shift—and what exactly are we replacing corporal punishment with?
We must ask: What’s the plan?
Saying “end corporal punishment” is easy. But have we answered the hard questions?
• What disciplinary measures will replace it?
• Do our schools have the infrastructure to implement these alternatives?
• Are teachers sufficiently trained to handle violent or defiant behaviour?
• How do we address children with ADHD, trauma, or conduct disorders who often do not respond to mere verbal correction?
• And finally, has anyone done the research to show that removing corporal punishment will actually improve discipline outcomes in the Caribbean context?
Local context matters
Most of the studies quoted by professionals calling for an end to corporal punishment are rooted in North American or European experiences. They often do not reflect the realities of Caribbean classrooms or homes. Are we simply importing Western ideologies and hoping for the best?
Yes, global research has shown links between corporal punishment and increased aggression in children. But where is the local data? Who has surveyed Barbadian children, families, and teachers? Where are the studies showing that children became criminals solely because of corporal punishment? Where is the proof that alternative methods work in our schools with our children?
Teachers and parents are on the front line
We are seeing a rise in students verbally abusing, threatening, and even physically assaulting teachers. Some children are disrespectful and confrontational towards both teachers and parents, especially those struggling with trauma, ADHD, or other psychological disorders.
Ending corporal punishment without offering real protective measures leaves our educators and parents exposed. We must ask:
• What is in place to protect teachers and caregivers from violent students?
• How are we helping children understand discipline, responsibility, and obedience in the absence of corporal correction?
Replacing corporal punishment requires more than talk
If we are serious about replacing corporal punishment, then let’s talk about:
• Behavioural intervention systems like Positive Behaviour Interventions and Supports (PBIS)
• Trauma-informed care in schools
• Restorative justice practices that teach accountability
• Social workers and behavioural therapists embedded in schools
• Anger management and emotional intelligence education as core curriculum
But here’s the truth: Most schools in Barbados do not have these systems in place. So what are we asking teachers to use in the meantime? Words?
The path forward must be Caribbean-centred
We need:
1. Local research on the effectiveness of alternative discipline methods
2. Pilot programmes in selected schools with trained staff to test new models
3. National consultations with teachers, parents, psychologists, and community leaders
4. Psychologists, counsellors, and intervention specialists in every school
5. Legislative and institutional support to protect teachers and enforce standards.
In conclusion
This debate isn’t about whether beating children is “right.” It’s about whether we’re prepared to guide and discipline our young people in ways that are effective, safe, and culturally grounded. Before we adopt wholesale bans on corporal punishment, let us ensure we are not removing tools from parents and teachers without replacing them with something stronger and more effective.
Discipline without structure breeds chaos. If we fail to prepare alternatives, we may one day look back and ask ourselves whether we helped our children—or abandoned them.
Roger Husbands is chairman and founder of Drug Education and Counselling Services, a faith-based NGO established that works with young people, under the age of 25 years, with substance abuse and behavioural issues.
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