Prevalence and Demography of Corporal Punishment: A Study on Middle School Students

The study explores the prevalence of corporal punishment and examines the influence of demographic variables (Gender, Category and Type of schools) on corporal punishment as experienced by middle school students in Rampur Naikin Town of Madhya Pradesh. The study reveals that though corporal punishment is barred in schools in India under Section 17 of the Right to Education Act, 2009, it is still in practice to some extent. Furthermore, it is found that although caste (category) and gender-centric practices are minimal, these practices vary depending on the type of school, with private schools showing a higher prevalence of these detrimental practices compared to government schools. Private schools are perceived to have better education, but whether punishment affects achievement is a bigger question. The results of the study can be used to make policies and strategies to improve mental health and lead to a better life and society.