Corporal Punishment and Student Outcomes: Misbehavior, School Value, and Aspiration

• In Event: Issues and Interventions in School Safety

Abstract

Data from the School Survey on Crime and Safety (SSOCS) shows that as of 2007-08 school year, 11.1% of U.S. public schools (n=284) are allowed to use CP, and among those 284 schools, 79.3% of schools (n=210) actually used CP. Negative correlations are observed between school with CP policy and a weapon other than a firearm or explosive device; illegal drugs; alcohol; physical attacks or fights; gang-related and hate crimes; and disruptions. After controlling for school factors, when principals used CP, more students in those schools less vale academic achievement (about 1.35% decrease) and have less aspiration (about 3.54% decrease), compared to schools that having CP policy but did not use it. Policy implications for school administrators were offered.

Authors

• Seunghee Han, University of Missouri - Columbia

• Seoung Joun Won, University of Missouri