Student Sued School for 1 Million Yuan After Corporal Punishment Led to Anxiety Disorder

This case highlights the ongoing issue of corporal punishment in Chinese schools and the devastating consequences it can have on students' physical and mental well-being. The court's ruling is a significant victory for the student and his family, and it serves as a reminder that schools and teachers have a responsibility to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.

In this incident, a 6-year-old student, Xiao Qi, who was born in August 2016, was subjected to physical punishment by his teacher, Ms. Xu, at a primary school in Shilin County, Yunnan Province. During class, Xiao Qi was punished for not paying attention and other minor infractions, with Ms. Xu pulling his hair and ears, resulting in patchy hair loss. Following a medical diagnosis, Xiao Qi was found to be suffering from a terror-related anxiety disorder. After the incident, his parents sought compensation, but when negotiations with the school failed to yield a satisfactory agreement, they took the matter to court, seeking over 1.08 million yuan in damages for their son's physical and emotional harm.

According to experts, the student's diagnosis with "恐怖性焦虑障碍" (phobic anxiety disorder) after being physically punished by the teacher is a stark reminder that phobias can be triggered by traumatic experiences. This type of anxiety disorder is characterized by an intense, irrational fear of a specific object, situation, or activity, which can lead to avoidance behaviors. In this case, the student's phobia may have been triggered by the traumatic experience of being physically punished, which can have long-lasting effects on their mental health.

Experts emphasize that phobias are not just a matter of being "cowardly" or "weak," but rather a serious psychological condition that requires professional treatment. The three types of phobias - agrizoophobia (fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult), social phobia (fear of social situations), and specific phobias (fear of specific objects or situations) - can all have a significant impact on a person's daily life. It's essential to recognize the signs of phobias, which can include avoidance behaviors, panic attacks, and physical symptoms such as a racing heart or sweating. Experts stress that seeking professional help is crucial, and that treatment options such as exposure therapy, medication, and acceptance can be effective in managing phobias.

In response to this incident, netizens overwhelmingly expressed that corporal punishment of students is unacceptable and that educators should employ suitable teaching methods rather than resorting to violence. Furthermore, there was a consensus that terror-related anxiety disorder is a serious mental health condition that necessitates collective concern and understanding from both parents and educators. It was emphasized that schools and teachers should prioritize students' psychological and physical well-being, utilizing evidence-based educational techniques to foster a secure learning environment.

The case serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing the root causes of trauma and promoting a culture of acceptance and understanding. By recognizing the legitimacy of individuals' emotions and providing support and encouragement, we can help them overcome their phobias and improve their overall mental health and well-being. Ultimately, the court's ruling is a significant step towards creating a more supportive and inclusive environment for all individuals, regardless of their mental health struggles.