Change Norms in Faith Communities to Support Non-violent Discipline

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This page is intended for content that is specific to people in faith communities and their members/families. There is a separate objective that focuses on supporting non-violent discipline in the broader community.  Most content is not duplicated, so consider looking at both pages to help craft your community's strategy for this issue. . 

Background

The family unit is the biggest source of protection and support for children. But, in some religious communities, an application of corporal punishment is seen as a necessary part of child upbringing [1]. However, it is important to notes that corporal punishment is never justified by tradition, culture or religion [2]. Despite the differences between religions and beliefs, all major religions emphasize the need for respecting all humans and teach non-violence and compassion for every life [3]. Approximately 65-80% of parent’s in the U.S use spanking to discipline their children, and 30% of parent’s use spanking on children under the age of one [4]There are increasing research studies that show spanking is linked to future negative outcomes in a child's life including decreased IQ and increased adult abusive behaviors [5]. There is a strong agreement across different religions that every child needs protection from different types of violence and  faith-based communities are in a critical position to prevent violence against children, especially in the home [6]. Collaboration creates a strong foundation for engaging with different religions partners and communities to mobilize positive change [7].

While there is a growing number of religious, communities speaking out against violence-based disciplines, many do not know how to practice positive discipline in different situations and at home [8]. It is important to note that non-violence is not avoiding discipline, but rather using the correct tools, approach and methods that promote and keep the well-being of the child at the forefront [9].

The UN study on violence against Children demonstrates that an increasing number of children experience violence in their homes, and it has called out religious communities specifically to take an urgent approach to stop the increasing trend [10]. The study has emphasized the importance of several factors that assist in the approach, including increasing awareness of children’s rights, respecting the child as a whole, addressing values and norms that contribute to violence against children and increasing education around problem-solving and conflict resolution for parents [11].

 

 

Tools and Resources

There are several resources available to assist with positive discipline implementation.

Little Hearts/Gentle Parenting

  • The L.R. Knost––Little Hearts/Gentle Parenting Resources discusses how parents can reflect Christ-Like qualities through parenting. A few tips include building trust in children from the start and practicing what you preach- with modeling compassion, kindness and forgiveness. 
  • Resource is intended for parents 

The non-violent Christian Parent manual

  • The non-violent Christian Parent manual discusses the three step listening tool for parents to use. 
  • Guide for parents to walk through child devleopment and appropriate methods for non-violent parenting 
  • Tips include active listening and understanding the child's needs 

Churches' Network for Non-violence

  • Broadens religious support for law reform regarding ending corporal punishment for children
  • Challenges fath-based justification for violence-based discipline, encourages leaders in faith-based communities to play an active role in societal reform 
  • Has multi-religion resources for specific religions
  • Has handbooks and workshops for parents, religious leaders
  • Link to organization here 

Promising Practices and Case Studies

Examples from communities that have implemented tools focused on this objective

Scorecard Building

Possible Objective Details

Possible Measures

Actions to Take

Actions for Coalitions

Actions for Individuals

Sources

  1. ↑ https://bettercarenetwork.org/sites/default/files/attachments/A%20Note%20on%20Positive%20Parenting.pdf
  2. ↑ Ibid. Better Parenting PDF
  3. ↑ https://bettercarenetwork.org/sites/default/files/attachments/A%20Note%20on%20Positive%20Parenting.pdf
  4. ↑ https://parentingbeyondpunishment.com/nsc/
  5. ↑ https://parentingbeyondpunishment.com/nsc/
  6. ↑ https://bettercarenetwork.org/sites/default/files/attachments/A%20Note%20on%20Positive%20Parenting.pdf
  7. ↑ https://bettercarenetwork.org/sites/default/files/attachments/A%20Note%20on%20Positive%20Parenting.pdf
  8. ↑ https://bettercarenetwork.org/sites/default/files/attachments/A%20Note%20on%20Positive%20Parenting.pdf
  9. ↑ https://bettercarenetwork.org/sites/default/files/attachments/A%20Note%20on%20Positive%20Parenting.pdf
  10. ↑ https://bettercarenetwork.org/sites/default/files/attachments/A%20Note%20on%20Positive%20Parenting.pdf
  11. ↑ https://bettercarenetwork.org/sites/default/files/attachments/A%20Note%20on%20Positive%20Parenting.pdf
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