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π Does My Mum Have a Right to Hit Me? Understanding Your Rights and Building Safe Boundaries
π Does My Mum Have a Right to Hit Me? Understanding Your Rights and Building Safe Boundaries
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Does my mum have the right to hit me?”, you’re not alone—and the fact that you’re even asking means something isn’t sitting right. This blog post is here to help you understand your rights, your safety, and how to navigate difficult family situations with care and knowledge.
Let’s break it down together in a kind, supportive, and informative way.
⚖️ Know Your Rights: Hitting Is Not Okay
In the UK and many other countries, children have the legal right to be protected from physical harm. While some parents may believe smacking is a form of discipline, the law is increasingly clear that physical punishment is not acceptable.
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In Scotland and Wales, all forms of physical punishment, including smacking, are illegal.
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In England and Northern Ireland, there are still some outdated laws that allow "reasonable punishment", but hitting that causes any injury (including bruises, cuts, or marks) can be considered assault.
So, to answer directly: No, your mum does not have the right to hit you, especially if it causes pain, injury, or fear.
π§ Understand the Impact: Hitting Hurts More Than Just the Body
Being hit by a parent can be confusing, painful, and emotionally damaging. It can leave long-lasting effects beyond the moment it happens.
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It may cause fear, anxiety, or low self-esteem.
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It can damage the trust between you and your parent.
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You may find it harder to speak openly or feel safe at home.
Many psychologists and child development experts agree that hitting does not teach discipline—it teaches fear. Positive parenting works better for long-term emotional health and respectful communication.
π You’re Not Alone: Support Is Available
If you’re being hit at home and you feel scared, unsafe, or unsure of what to do, it’s important to know there are people you can talk to.
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In the UK, you can call Childline at 0800 1111 — it’s free, confidential, and available 24/7.
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You can also speak to a trusted teacher, school counsellor, or family member.
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Services like NSPCC offer advice and protection for children and young people.
Reaching out doesn’t mean you’re “getting your parent in trouble”. It means you’re standing up for your safety and mental wellbeing.
π¬ Talking to Your Mum (If It’s Safe to Do So)
In some cases, your mum might not realise the emotional effect her actions are having. If you feel safe and supported, having a calm conversation could help open a door to change.
You might say:
“Mum, when you hit me, it makes me feel scared and sad. I want us to have a better way to talk things through.”
Be honest, use “I feel” statements, and avoid blaming language. If you’re not sure how to say it, writing a letter can sometimes help too.
π Educate Yourself on Healthy Family Dynamics
Knowing what a healthy parent-child relationship looks like can help you recognise when something isn’t right.
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Healthy parenting is built on respect, listening, and clear boundaries.
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Discipline doesn’t need to be physical—it can be about guidance, conversation, and natural consequences.
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A parent’s role is to nurture, not intimidate.
Understanding this gives you the confidence to say: “I deserve to be treated with respect and kindness.”
π§‘ Healing Is Possible
If you’ve experienced being hit at home, it doesn’t define you. You can recover, grow, and build a future based on respect and emotional safety.
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Consider speaking to a therapist or counsellor who works with young people.
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Practice self-care and remind yourself that your feelings are valid.
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Join online forums or support groups where others share their stories—knowing you're not alone is incredibly powerful.
Every step you take towards healing is a step towards a healthier, happier future.
✅ Final Thoughts: You Deserve to Feel Safe at Home
No one—not even a parent—has the right to hit you. While family relationships can be complex and emotionally charged, your safety and wellbeing must always come first. Whether you choose to talk to someone, reach out for help, or simply learn more about your rights, you are doing the right thing.
Support is out there, and you deserve to be heard, respected, and protected.
π§Ύ FAQs About Parental Discipline and Children's Rights
Q: Is it illegal for my mum to smack me in the UK?
A: Yes, in Scotland and Wales it is illegal. In England and Northern Ireland, hitting that causes harm or injury is still considered assault.
Q: What should I do if I’m scared of my mum?
A: Talk to a trusted adult or contact Childline on 0800 1111. You deserve to feel safe and supported.
Q: Can social services help me?
A: Yes, social services are there to protect children. If they become involved, their goal is to keep you safe, not just to punish your parent.
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