#13 Beating their children

Throughout modern history, Chinese children have often been praised by non-Chinese parents as being polite, modest, good-natured and well disciplined. While many may debate the merits of nature vs. nurture, nurture indubitably plays a strong role in the shaping of a Chinese child's temperament. The nurture in question are savage beatings administered by parents.

As the reasons for beating are numerous, this method of physical discipline is integral in the parent's continued use of negative reinforcement, and to deter future misbehaviour. Common reasons for beatings include: poor grades (<90%), fighting with siblings, talking back, not practicing piano/violin and general disobedience. It is not uncommon that beatings would be administered based on petty reasons (e.g. not going home right after school) in order to maintain the fear instilled in the hearts of the children.

Non-Chinese parents that discipline their children will usually use a belt and/or hand. However, Chinese parents, in this regard are much more creative/resourceful. Common beating tools include coat hangers (plastic and metal), spatulas (plastic, metal and wood), rulers, paint stirrers, and the most infamous of all, the feather duster. The implement of choice will often depend on the administrator of the beatings. Being the most commonly used beating tool, Chinese children have developed a Pavlovian response to this unassuming household cleaning tool and will typically cringe or scurry away out of habit. The traditional form of this torture device is a long bamboo handle on one end, with feathers on the other. The contemporary model consists of a handle that is made of an intertwined steel rod covered in a hard plastic. Research has shown that both these models will consistently cause great pain to the palm, thigh, and buttock areas.

Should you be Chinese and also experienced savage and undeserved beatings in your youth, this is a great way to bond with your fellow Chinese. Talking about this once dreaded topic will often turn into reminiscing, which in turn is known to bring out one's competitive side. It is entirely possible to overhear a heated discussion between two Chinese people attempting to one-up each other with stories of, "my most savage beating". As a tip for non-Chinese people, highlighting the fact that, "I've never been beat" will only serve to alienate yourself from your Chinese friends, instead of impressing them.