Spanking is a Widely Debated Topic Among Parents

Spanking is a widely debated topic among parents. Spanking is mostly known as a common form of corporal punishment, involving the act of striking another person, specifically children, to cause physical pain, generally with an open and open hand. Most experts advise concerning against using corporal punishment and other severe forms of spanking, such as switching, paddling, belting, whipping, and others that involve the use of an object instead of a hand, but some parents believe that spanking is an effective discipline strategy.

Other parents admit they have occasionally spanked their children, especially when they are feeling overly stressed and frustrated.

Researchers interviewed parents who had experienced frequent physical punishment during their childhood and were more likely to believe it was acceptable. In turn, their children were more likely to consider hitting as a means of resolving any conflicts. Parents in these situations might say, “Nothing else seems to work.” and make other children believe that spanking is an appropriate disciplinary method. Without a consistent discipline strategy, it might feel like spanking is the best option, but maybe they don’t see there are other options to have a right and appropriate disciplinary method other than corporal punishment.

In whichever camp they belong to, all parents need to know and closely consider the potential consequences of physical punishment, including spanking. Physical punishment can work momentarily to stop problematic behavior because children are afraid of being hit, but it doesn’t work, and it rarely has a positive effect in the long term and can also make children more aggressive. Studies have shown that physical or corporal punishment, including spanking, hitting, and other means of causing pain, can lead to increased aggression, antisocial behavior, physical injury, and mental health problems for children. This may have indirect changes in how the child thinks about things and feels about things.

As of today, physical discipline is increasingly being viewed as a violation of children’s human rights. The study does not discriminate well between non-abusive and overly-severe types of corporal punishment but informs parents that children might get worse outcomes from corporal punishment than from other alternative disciplinary techniques. There is no need for corporal punishment. Studies are saying this is a horrible thing that does not work and doesn’t teach your child better behavior.

Instead of any corporal punishment, adults and parents should reinforce appropriate behaviors, set limits, redirect children and set expectations. Instead of spanking, parents should use “positive reinforcement as a primary means of teaching acceptable behavior” it also recommends using a “time-out” when a child breaks a specific rule. Remaining calm during a child’s tantrums is the best approach, coupled with time outs when needed and a consistent discipline plan that rewards good behavior.

Restitution helps restore relationships and gives children a chance to learn new skills. The technique can be very effective for aggressive behavior and works well for children and teens of all ages. Part of this problem is a good discipline that isn’t quick or easy. Even the best parents don’t always have the patience, but parents should talk with their children about appropriate means of resolving conflicts. Building a trusting relationship can help children believe that discipline isn’t arbitrary or done out of anger.

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