The recent case of Kai-Kai has shocked the public and brought the issue of child abuse back into the spotlight. According to the Ministry of Health and Welfare, over 120,000 child abuse reports were filed in Taiwan in 2023, a 20% increase from the previous year. Most cases involved elementary school children, with nearly 50% related to physical abuse. Although most parents aim to discipline their children, 20% admitted to using corporal punishment in the past month, and 80% believe it is reasonable.

The Child Welfare League Foundation (CWLF) points out that corporal punishment not only fails to help children understand their mistakes but also creates emotional distance between parents and children, reducing trust and willingness to communicate. Many parents, overwhelmed by stress or unable to manage emotions, lash out verbally or physically, unaware of the long-term psychological damage to their children.80% of parents still believe corporal punishment is a form of discipline. (Image/Heho Health)

Li Zhen-Fang, supervisor at the Miaoli CWLF branch, offers four techniques for emotional regulation: (1) &ldquoClose your eyes and take a deep breath&rdquo to regain rationality (2) &ldquoLeave the scene&rdquo to avoid escalating tension with the child (3) &ldquoFind a substitute caregiver,&rdquo such as another family member (4) &ldquoFace the child&rsquos emotions&rdquo honestly and express your own feelings to avoid overreacting.An increasing number of studies indicate that scolding and physical punishment have long-term negative effects on children. (Image/Heho Health)

Experts emphasize that the key to avoiding corporal punishment is for parents to manage their own reactions. By changing how they respond, they can effectively reduce the risk of child abuse and build healthier parent-child relationships.