Perceptions of Child Physical Discipline among Burmese Migrants Living in Mae Sot, Thailand

Despite the United Nations’ disapproval of child physical discipline and its association with numerous negative outcomes, physical discipline continues to be used globally and is often present in countries experiencing financial or political instability. Burmese migrants living in Mae Sot, Thailand experience instability due to their experiences of socioeconomic disadvantage, cultural and religious discrimination, and forced migration. Exploring the perceptions of child physical discipline in this at-risk population could elucidate reasons for its use and provide direction for future educational and child protection interventions. The main objective of this study is to explore parenting in adverse circumstances. In particular, this study aims to understand the attitudes and beliefs regarding child physical discipline among Burmese migrants in Mae Sot. This analysis included 80 micro-narratives about a current or previous parenting experience from Burmese migrants who self-identified as a parent. SenseMaker® technology was used to collect qualitative micro-narratives. Inductive thematic analysis and directed content analysis using the Grid-group theory was conducted. The themes identified from the micro-narratives align with the four distinct cultural environments described by the Gridgroup theory (hierarchical, fatalistic, individualistic, and egalitarian), showing a spectrum of acceptability of child physical discipline. A three-pronged approach that focuses on establishing legislation, shifting cultural attitudes, and addressing social determinants should be considered to address the use of child physical discipline in this migrant population.