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SEVERAL leading children’s rights activist groups have today called for an out-right ban on ‘Santa’s not coming if you’re bold,’ threats, claiming that the practice is nothing more than a cruel and draconian form of child abuse.

Speaking at a conference on children’s rights in Dublin, chairman for The Wooden Spoon foundation, Tadhg Kent, told WWN that 3 out of every 4 children in Ireland are threatened with Santa Claus not coming, which he says can lead to future abandonment and anxiety issues.

“Every parent has gone through it: bathtime, bedtime, schooltime or just too much sugar. Kids will always put up a fuss when it comes to a daily routine,” he stated. “Let’s face it, the average working parent hasn’t time to be dealing with childish tantrums… it’s wake, work, home and put the kids to bed as soon as possible before I drink that bottle of wine whole, glass an’all.

“We have found that many children threatened in this manner grow up resenting the festive season when they’re older, and may even suffer panic attacks at this time of year,” he added.

Introducing one such victim, WWN spoke to 33-year-old, Jamie Clarke, who claims that he’s been unable to work for the majority of his adult life due to anxiety issues pertaining to being threatened with Santa not coming if he was bold as a child.

“On the run up to Christmas the thoughts of an old man watching your every move can have detrimental effects on a young child, and should never be used as a form of discipline,” an emotional Clarke explained. “I lived in constant fear to be honest. It was confusing too, as a Santa’s definition of being bold changed day to day according to my parents.”

If you or someone you know has been affected by Santa threats, please call contact your local Wooden Spoon foundation office.