CORPORAL PUNISHMENT IN CHILDHOOD AND ITS PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS INLATER LIFE IN UNDERGRADUATE MEDICAL STUDENTS OF SIALKOT MEDICALCOLLEGE AND ALLIED INSTITUTIONS OF SIALKOT

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the psychological effect in late life of corporal punishments of childhood among undergraduate students of Sialkot Medical College & Allied Institutions, Sialkot.

Methodology:

A cross sectional study was carried out in May, 2023 in the Sialkot Medical College, Sialkot. A total 300 proforma containing questionnaire was distributed in classes of MBBS, DPT and HND on the basis of systematic random sampling to eliminate selection bias. Approval from ethical committee of SMC was taken after presenting the proposal for study. Consent was taken and confidentiality was assured. Three parameters knowledge, attitude of mentors, effects of punishment were asked separately in questionnaire.

Results:

We found that 92.33 % response rate (23 dropped out of 300) was obtained. Corporal punishment is associated with 53.5% mental effect in students who are victim of such punishments. While 46.5% shows positive growth and there is no correction of behavior.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the study reveals that majority of both teachers and parents resort to punitive measures when addressing student behavior. However, a significant proportion of teachers and parents prefer employing constructive approaches like mutual conversation and counseling. Physical punishment is predominantly administered to the students' backs, significant number of students received on hands and buttocks while considerable number of students reported no exposure to corporal punishment.