Nasution, Sugeng Harianto, Esa Bayu Gusti Gincung Patridina, Izzatul Fajriyah, F. X. Sri Sadewo, Wasino, Arifeen Yama
This study investigates the practice of corporal punishment in Indonesian schools across three major political periods—Sukarno, the New Order, and the Reform era—before implementing the Child-Friendly School Policy in 2014. Employing a historical method within a case study framework, this research draws on in-depth interviews with six purposively selected individuals who experienced corporal punishment during their school years. Findings reveal that corporal punishment was normalized in earlier eras to instill obedience and maintain classroom order. During the Sukarno and New Order periods, such punishment—ranging from beatings with rattan sticks and rulers to forced labor and public humiliation—was harsh and widespread. In contrast, the Reform era marked a gradual shift toward less severe and more symbolic punitive practices, reflecting the growing influence of child rights discourses. The introduction of the Child-Friendly School Policy in 2014 served as a pivotal policy intervention, significantly reducing the prevalence and severity of corporal punishment. Nonetheless, residual practices persist, indicating a gap between regulatory frameworks and actual implementation at the school level. This study highlights the urgent need for comprehensive pedagogical reform and targeted teacher training to eradicate corporal punishment and foster child-centered, non-violent educational environments. © 2025, Universitas Negeri Semarang. All rights reserved.
Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Indonesia; Universitas Negeri Semarang, Indonesia; Chulalongkorn University, Thailand
