Physical Punishment as a Practice of Violence Against Children
摘要
This chapter addresses physical punishment as violence against children, often masked as an educational practice. It adopts a bioecological perspective to analyze cultural, historical, and social factors that perpetuate violent behavior. The review covers historical data, legislation, and national and international interventions, highlighting programs that promote positive parenting. Cultural beliefs that normalize violence are emphasized, despite evidence demonstrating physical and psychological harm to child development. The relevance of public policies and programs for the use of positive educational practices, integrating contextual and cultural aspects, is discussed. It concludes that overcoming physical punishment requires intersectoral efforts, cultural changes, and greater integration of interventions into the protection system. The findings underscore the effectiveness of nonviolent practices and the need to raise awareness to ensure a protected childhood.