How can we change things?

It isn’t simple. It calls for everyone to compromise and communicate. It is not acceptable for parents to discipline or punish in an abusive way, but try to look at the situation from their perspective. Are people communicating in your home? Are you talking through problems? Are you trying to understand what your parents may be going through in order to provide for you?

Accept responsibility & play a more active role

Being a child means you are constantly changing - you are trying to find out who you are, what you like, and who you like. To top it all, there is a lot of peer pressure nowadays. Ask yourself if you sometimes behave in a manner that makes it difficult for your caregivers to approach you. A lot of children find it difficult to talk to their parents – but it works both ways. Caregivers aren’t mind readers and can only help you if you let them. Also, ask yourself if you show appreciation for all the things your caregivers do for you, even if you don’t get all the things you want.

What does this have to do with punishment and discipline?

Well, if there is no communication and openness between you and your caregiver, perhaps that is why they resort to unacceptable forms of discipline and punishment. Are you treating your caregivers as you would like to be treated? Perhaps try talking to them about the way that they punish/discipline you. You never know, they might value your input!