Is It Legal to Spank a Child in Michigan Schools?

More than 15 U.S. states currently allow public schools to use corporal punishment to discipline children from preschool until they graduate. Is Michigan one of those states?

In 2023 one school in Missouri reinstated corporal punishment under a new policy. That policy allows students to be punished with a paddle if "other means of discipline have failed and only in reasonable form."

However, parents can opt in or out of the policy. Strangely enough, many parents opted in.

What is the Meaning of Corporal Punishment?

Corporal punishment means the deliberate infliction of physical pain by hitting, paddling, spanking, slapping, or any other physical force used as a means of discipline.

Is Corporal Punishment Allowed in Michigan's Public Schools?

According to FindLaw, in Michigan, corporal punishment in public schools is strictly prohibited under any circumstances. However, reasonable force may be used for self-defense or in defense of others.

While some people are on board with the idea of corporal punishment in schools, others believe it can create bigger issues for the child.

Some experts believe after countless studies that physical punishment including spanking, hitting, and other means of causing pain can lead to increased aggression, antisocial behavior, physical injury, and mental health problems for children.

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As of 2024, corporal punishment is still legal in private schools in every U.S. state except New Jersey, Iowa, New York and Maryland

Honestly, I don't know where I stand with this issue. I don't think I like the idea of anyone spanking my kid...and that includes me.

I'm glad I live in a state that prohibits corporal punishment.

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