Poroporoaki for Professor James Ritchie

Media Statement

Barnardos NZ

Poroporoaki for Professor James Ritchie

Barnardos New Zealand is saddened by the death of former Waikato University Professor of Psychology, and strong child advocate, James Ritchie, yesterday.

“James’ death is a great loss for New Zealand children, students and teachers.  Along with his wife Jane, James has been a staunch advocate for children, young people and their families and promoted raising children without the use of physical punishment”, says Murray Edridge, Chief Executive of Barnardos New Zealand.

James and Jane Ritchie have been studying child rearing in New Zealand for over forty years. From the 1970’s, James and Jane Ritchie started the campaign calling for the repeal of Section 59 of the Crimes Act to remove the legal defence that had previously been available to parents charged with assaulting their child.  They have continued their support and lobbying through to the law change in 2007.

The Ritchies have written several books on child rearing practices and attitudes in New Zealand and the Pacific, including “Spare the Rod”, and conducted numerous in-depth, interview-based studies with families.  Their most recent research shows significant numbers of parents are choosing to never smack their child.

“The death of James Ritchie is a loss to the child advocacy sector.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to James’ family”, concludes Mr Edridge.

ENDS

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