Alex's Answer
Is it ok for a parent to hit me
Your Question
is it okay for my dad to hit me if I misbehave?Â
Answer
Hi, welcome to Ask Alex.
We know it’s not always easy to reach out for help. You are so brave in taking this big step forward to getting the help and support that you deserve. 
You are asking if it is okay for your dad to hit you if you misbehave. We understand that you are questioning this, but it is important to know that this treatment is not okay.
We would be concerned if your dad is hitting you, as no one has the right to harm you or hurt you physically, mentally, or emotionally. Your parents have a responsibility to look after you, care for you and listen to you.
You have a right to get help and support and to talk to someone about how you feel. You have the right to be listened to and heard about what you are experiencing. Sometimes talking about what we are going through with an adult we trust can help us to make decisions. Do you think you have a trusted adult you could speak to about your situation? This could be another family member, youth worker or neighbour.
People have the right to report any concerns of abuse to Social Workers or to the GardaÃ. Túlsa is the Child and Family Agency in Ireland. The social workers within Túlsa are there for young people under the age of 18 years, and their job is to keep children and young people safe at home. You can find your local Túlsa office here www.tusla.ie/get-in-touch/local-area-offices/ if you would like to get in touch with them or get information. If you feel unsafe at any time, or you are in danger, you can call the emergency services at 999 or 112.
Maybe you are not ready to speak to somebody you know just yet, and that is understandable. You are always welcome to contact us at Childline. You can reach out to talk or chat to us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and these services are free and confidential. You can talk to us by phone 1800 66 66 66 or chat to us on our webchat at www.childline.ie , just click on the Orange Live Chat tab. You are not alone, Childline is here for you. We can help you look at what options are available to you; we can help you decide what your next step is.
Take care of yourself, we hope to hear from you soon,
Alex