Over Half of Children in Dominican Republic Experience Violent Discipline Methods

A UNICEF report based on the ENHOGAR-MICS 2025 survey reveals that more than 50% of children in the Dominican Republic have experienced violent disciplinary practices in their homes. Released during National Children's Rights Day (September 29), the findings highlight the persistence of harmful discipline methods despite international child protection standards. Exposure to violent discipline during childhood is associated with increased risks of anxiety, depression, behavioral disorders, and long-term psychological trauma. Health professionals emphasize that positive parenting techniques and evidence-based discipline alternatives are crucial for protecting children's physical and mental health. These alarming statistics underscore the urgent need for public health interventions, parental education programs, and policy reforms to protect vulnerable youth populations.