Tag: Violent discipline

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Study Reveals Alarming Impact of Violent Discipline on Early Childhood Development

National Survey in Bangladesh Unveils Troubling Trends in Child Discipline Practices

In a groundbreaking study based on nationally representative data from the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey Bangladesh 2019, researchers shed light on the intricate relationship between child discipline practices at home and the early childhood development (ECD) of children aged 36-to-59 months.

Key Findings:

  1. Prevalence of Violent Disciplinary Measures: Shockingly, the study found that around 94% of children experienced at least one of eight violent disciplinary measures in the month preceding the survey.
  2. ECD On-Track vs. Delayed Development: While approximately three-quarters of the children were on track in their ECD, the research highlighted a concerning trend – children subjected to violent disciplinary practices were more likely to face delays in their early childhood development.
  3. The Gradient of the Relationship: The study delved into the gradient of the relationship between the number and types of child discipline practices and ECD. Researchers discovered a significant increase in the probability of children being on track in ECD with non-violent disciplinary practices, while the likelihood decreased with the use of violent disciplinary measures.
  4. Quantifying the Impact: For every unit increase in the overall violent disciplinary index, the odds of children being on track in their ECD reduced by 12%. This reduction was not only substantial but also statistically significant (adjusted odds ratio = 0.88; 95%CI: 0.86–0.91).

Implications and Recommendations:

The study’s findings have prompted researchers to advocate for a ban on violent punishments in all settings and the implementation of positive parenting programs. The goal is to create a safer and more conducive environment for the healthy development of young children.

This research contributes significantly to the ongoing discourse surrounding child discipline practices and underscores the need for societal awareness and policy changes to ensure the well-being and optimal development of the youngest members of our communities.

Credit: Sciencedirect.com