A leading child health expert, Prof. Aminu Mohammad, has warned that slapping children, especially on the ears, could lead to permanent hearing loss and other serious health problems. His caution comes amid growing concerns over physical discipline methods used by some caregivers and teachers.
Prof. Mohammad explained that slapping a child on the ear exerts significant pressure on the eardrum, which can rupture and result in deafness. “Slapping can cause deafness because the process involves a lot of pressure, especially when it involves the ear. The pressure can cause trauma to the eardrum, which can rupture,” he said. He added that repeated slaps increase the risk of permanent injury.
His warning follows a disturbing viral video showing a teacher, Stella Nwadigo, repeatedly slapping a three-year-old pupil, Abayomi Michael, during a lesson at Christ-Mitots International School in Ikorodu, Lagos State. In the video, the teacher can be seen scolding the child while slapping him as he struggled to write the number six.
The boy’s mother, Mrs. Adenike Okunlaya, spoke to PUNCH Healthwise about the incident. She claimed that the repeated slaps have affected her child’s hearing. “My son’s ear has been affected, and we are now seeking medical help because of what this teacher did to him,” she said.
Prof. Mohammad corroborated her concerns, emphasizing that slapping can cause both immediate and long-term harm. Beyond hearing damage, he noted, slapping can lead to other serious health problems such as neck and head trauma. “The sudden force can cause what is known as a ‘whiplash injury,’ which is an injury to the neck caused by sudden force. This could injure the spinal cord, potentially leading to paralysis in the limbs if not treated,” he explained.
Also Read:
- FG Focuses on Lagos Amid Human Metapneumovirus Alert
- Scientists Discover New Blood Group After 50-Year Mystery
The paediatrician also highlighted the risk of brain injuries from slapping. He said, “Slapping can cause contusions, which occur when a sudden shift in the brain causes it to strike the inner part of the skull. This could result in brain damage or even unconsciousness.”
In addition to these risks, Prof. Mohammad pointed out that slapping can lead to dental problems, including broken teeth or other oral injuries.
The incident has sparked outrage and renewed calls for the adoption of non-violent disciplinary methods. Prof. Mohammad stressed that positive reinforcement and communication are far more effective and safer approaches to teaching and disciplining children. “It is important to focus on nurturing and guiding children through positive means rather than resorting to physical punishment,” he urged.
The video has drawn widespread condemnation, with many Nigerians expressing anger over the teacher’s actions and calling for stricter measures to prevent such abuses in schools.
As investigations into the incident continue, experts and advocates are urging parents, educators, and caregivers to prioritize the physical and emotional well-being of children and to abandon harmful disciplinary practices.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of physical punishment and the urgent need for greater awareness about the long-term consequences it can have on children’s health and development.