Leaving a Mark: An exploration of how adults make sense of being physically punished as children
I am undertaking a research project that explores the lived experience of being physically punished by a parent during childhood, and how adults understand and make sense of these experiences later in life.
For the purpose of this project, physical punishment refers to acts such as smacking, spanking, or other forms of physical discipline used by a parent or caregiver in response to a child’s behaviour.
I’d like to hear from you if:
● You are aged 25 or over
● You experienced physical punishment from one or both parents during childhood
● You do not define your experiences as severe physical abuse
● You are currently in personal therapy (to support reflective participation)
This research is being conducted as part of an MA in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy at the Minster Centre and has been approved by the Minster Centre’s Ethics Committee.
The research will be conducted in accordance with BACP Ethical Guidelines.
Your participation would involve taking part in a confidential, audio-recorded interview lasting approximately 60–90 minutes. The interview will take place online via Google Meet.
If you are interested in taking part in this project or would like to find out more, please contact me:
Justyna O’Connell
Please see the poster here.