Social Sciences and Humanities Open (Jan 2021)
Perceptions of child physical discipline among Burmese migrants living in Mae Sot, Thailand
Abstract
Background: Despite the United Nation's disapproval of child physical discipline and its association with numerous negative outcomes, physical discipline continues to be used globally and is often present in countries experiencing financial or political instability. Burmese migrants living in Mae Sot, Thailand experience instability due to their experiences of socioeconomic disadvantage, cultural and religious discrimination, and forced migration. Exploring the perceptions of child physical discipline in this at-risk population could elucidate reasons for its use and provide direction for future educational and child protection interventions. Objective: The main objective of this study is to explore parenting in adverse circumstances. In particular, this paper aims to understand the attitudes and beliefs regarding child physical discipline among Burmese migrants in Mae Sot. Participants and Setting: This analysis included 80 micro-narratives about a current or previous parenting experience from Burmese migrants who self-identified as a parent. Methods: SenseMaker® technology was used to collect qualitative micro-narratives. Inductive thematic analysis and directed content analysis using the Grid-group theory was conducted. Results: Physical discipline in this population frequently involved the use of a stick or other implement and was almost exclusively administered by family members. Thematic analysis revealed reasons for the use of physical discipline (including a desire for obedience and as a consequence of parental stress), conditions for its use (such as child's age and severity of their behaviour), and alternative disciplinary strategies (including discussion and explanation). The cultural environments presented in the Grid-group theory (hierarchical, fatalistic, individualistic, and egalitarian) each align with the aforementioned themes, suggesting that there is a spectrum of acceptability of child physical discipline in this population. Conclusions: A three-pronged approach that focuses on establishing legislation, shifting cultural attitudes, and addressing social determinants should be considered to address the use of child physical discipline in this migrant population. Legislation should explicitly prohibit child physical discipline in all settings, including the home. Educational interventions on the long-term harms associated with child physical discipline could help shift cultural attitudes on its use. Lastly, chronic stress and insecurity in this population could be alleviated by providing Burmese migrants with permanent legal status.
