Punishment validates fear, pain, intimidation and violence as acceptable methods of resolving conflict. Corporal punishment denies children equal protection under the law - the rules of our society say you should hit children but may not hit another adult. Sweden and five other countries have outlawed spanking children. Physical punishment can escalate into battering and can result in permanent physical, mental, spiritual or emotional harm. It also confuses the issue of love and violence, teaching that violence can be an expression of love.
Punishment creates a final solution with the adult acting as judge, jury and executioner.
Discipline creates dialogue and communication with the adult acting as teacher. PER is approved by the American Psychological Association and the National Board of Certified Counselors to provide continuing education to psychologists and national certified counselors, as well as by a variety of other state licensing boards of social work, marriage and family therapy and professional counseling. Some restrictions may apply. PER retains responsibility for this program and adheres to sponsorship guidelines for awarding CE credit. Eight year old Josh was running up the stairs, swinging on the banister.