Experts warn that flogging kids in religious centers hurts their mental health. Some believe it’s spiritual cleansing. This causes trauma, not healing.
Experts Speak Out
Dr. Yesiru Kareem, a psychiatrist, calls these acts cruel. “Spirituality should help, not harm,” he says. Flogging leaves scars and shame. It can lead to anxiety or depression.
Lasting Damage to Kids
Punishment hurts a child’s growing brain. It may cause low self-esteem or drug use. Repeated flogging can lead to serious trauma, called complex PTSD.
Wrong Beliefs
Kareem says culture shouldn’t replace medical care. Parents should visit health centers early. Schools must be safe and avoid physical punishment.
Growing Mental Health Crisis
Dr. Modupeola Adebayo, a child expert, sees a silent crisis. A child’s brain sees flogging as danger. This affects memory and emotions. Kids may have nightmares or struggle in school.
Misguided Ideas
Parents often think bad behavior means spiritual problems. They take kids to centers for harsh treatment. “This hurts their trust and self-worth,” Adebayo says. Flogging isn’t healing.
Time for Change
Experts want Nigeria’s Child Rights Act enforced. It bans physical punishment. They call for education with religious leaders and schools. Kids with issues need doctors, not blame.
Better Ways to Help
Discipline can be kind. Therapy, counseling, and parent education work better. “Guide kids without hurting them,” Adebayo says. Nigeria must protect kids from trauma.
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