Corporal punishment was once a widely accepted method in US schools to enforce discipline and deter misbehavior through physical measures, such as spanking or paddling. It was intended to foster respect, curb narcissism, and prevent future rule-breaking. Today, however, corporal punishment is increasingly seen as outdated, excessively harsh, and harmful to the emotional and psychological development of children and youth.

Yet, as we analyze data on states banning corporal punishment, an unintended consequence emerges: a chilling correlation with the rise of school shootings across the United States. This article explores these trends from 1970 to 2024, highlighting how the decline of corporal punishment coincides with a surge in gun violence in schools. This raises difficult questions about the unintended impacts of modern educational reforms and the need for a cautious approach to balancing discipline, safety, and student well-being.