Articles

Defining the word nonviolence

CNVEP does not use the word nonviolent in reaction to violence, but as a word that honors the connection with a child that respects the core dignity of the child as a full and complete human being. Therefore, the right relationship to have with a child is one that is built on respect and kindness towards the core feelings and needs of the child. Nonviolence honors and respects the value, dignity and life force of the child.

Violence, we define to include anything that hurts the heart, mind or body of a child and leads to disconnection and distrust. This includes spanking, bribes, threats, name calling, shaming, manipulation, being untruthful or praise and rewards. This view moves beyond the current legal definition of child abuse and into a responsible more comprehensive understanding of what violence toward children can be.

FURTHER LEARNING

Ruth Beaglehole's Interview at Peace Talks Radio
Peace Talks: Peaceful Parenting (Part Two)
(KUNM Airdate:5/27/05) To read and/or listen to the interview... Click here.

Spanking: When parents lift their hands
It's better not to use corporal punishment, researchers agree. But,in fact, people do. Now we're learning the consequences.
By Ben Harder, Special to the Times
February 19, 2007

WHEN Murray Straus was raising his children in the 1950s and 60s, spanking was de rigueur in the American household. The Straus residence was no exception, with the father of two occasionally reacting to their misbehavior with a swat to the bottom.

But times have changed, and so has Straus' perception of spanking.

"If I knew then what I know now, I would not have spanked them at all." he says. "My research has convinced me that there should be no hitting - never, under any circumstances." more...