Courts target child abuse done under guise of 'strict parenting'

In China, the traditional belief that strict — and sometimes physical — discipline results in obedient and well-behaved children still persists in some families. However, legal research and numerous cases have shown that such methods can easily lead to psychological trauma, behavioral issues and physical injuries, potentially constituting domestic violence or child abuse.

In late November, the Supreme People's Court highlighted eight landmark cases, underscoring a "zero tolerance" approach to those who harm family members and stressing the importance of protecting minors in domestic violence situations.

The country's top court said courts at all levels must prioritize the well-being of children in their handling of cases, and stated that parents or guardians who use violence as a means to discipline or educate children are committing a potential act of domestic violence.

It has also clarified that Chinese courts will support changes in child custody arrangements if it is found that violence has caused a minor to develop a distorted understanding of family relationships, mental health issues, or undertake imitative behaviors.

"Parents do not have any extralegal privilege to commit domestic violence against their children," Tong Lihua, director of the Beijing Children's Legal Aid and Research Center, told China Women's News.

For parents who use cruel violence and cause serious harm to their children, judges should not only recognize their actions as domestic violence but also evaluate whether the abuse was intentional, taking into account the methods and frequency of the abuse, Tong said.

The law should be fully utilized to deter and penalize perpetrators and ensure a safer society, he said.