It’s hard to argue that hitting a child is acceptable. Yet, surveys indicate that more than 65% of adults still support the idea of spanking—often described as a “good hard spanking.” Let’s be clear: spanking is merely a euphemism for hitting. Therefore, hitting a child is simply wrong.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has firmly denounced spanking, emphasizing that there are no proven benefits to this method of punishment and that it constitutes abuse. Despite this, many parents continue to view physical discipline as permissible.
Shockingly, some states endorse corporal punishment in schools. According to the New York Times, 19 states in the U.S. still allow teachers and school administrators to spank students. This practice is more prevalent in the southeastern U.S., where approximately 14% of schools report using corporal punishment as part of their disciplinary methods.
Instead of resorting to physical punishment, the U.S. Department of Education recommends employing positive disciplinary strategies that foster social-emotional learning. These methods not only diminish problematic behavior but also enhance the overall learning environment for students. Research consistently shows the detrimental effects of corporal punishment, which involves inflicting pain or instilling fear to modify a child’s actions.
If you believe spanking isn’t a form of violence, consider this: spanking can increase aggression in children, undermine trust in caregivers, and hinder their ability to self-regulate. While it may temporarily curb undesirable behavior, spanking fails to yield lasting behavioral changes. In fact, the stress associated with corporal punishment can elevate stress hormone levels in children’s brains, leading to mental health issues later in life.
Hitting a child does not foster respect or trust. It doesn’t teach valuable lessons, nor does it cultivate better listeners or rule-followers. A report from the American Academy of Pediatrics revealed that 73% of children spanked reverted to the same behavior within just ten minutes.
You might argue that you only spank occasionally, but the AAP’s findings indicate that two or more instances of spanking per month correlate with increased aggression in children. Violence breeds violence, and this connection persists even when parents attempt gentler approaches.
Spanking often reflects a parent’s emotional struggles, including a lack of patience and self-control. It may also be a product of their upbringing or personal trauma. Financial instability can exacerbate stress and frustration, leading some parents to unleash their frustrations on their children. For instance, a study revealed that parents in middle-income brackets are 25% more likely to support spanking.
Dr. Lisa Green, a child psychologist, noted that parents with depression often rely on corporal punishment more frequently. She also pointed out that factors such as economic hardship, mental health issues, domestic violence, and substance abuse contribute to increased use of corporal punishment.
However, this isn’t a justification for continued abuse. Generational cycles of violence can be broken. I, for one, was a victim of abuse, yet I have chosen to raise my children without resorting to hitting. Mental health struggles shouldn’t lead to the assumption that a parent will resort to corporal punishment. I manage my own anxiety and depression without resorting to such measures.
I understand the temptation to resort to spanking, having lost control myself on a few occasions. Each time I regretted it and committed to being more mindful of my emotions. My desire to control my child’s behavior stemmed from my own frustrations, not the child’s actions. I’ve learned that walking away or seeking therapy is far more effective than hitting.
Nobody deserves to be subjected to the kind of discipline I experienced as a child. While my past may predispose me to certain behaviors, my commitment to self-awareness and personal growth sets me apart from making excuses.
If you still believe that spanking is harmless, it’s time to reconsider. Your views and authority over your child do not outweigh the vast evidence and lived experiences of those affected by spanking. Awareness leads to better parenting practices, and there are countless alternatives to physical punishment.
For further insights on parenting and discipline, check out more from our blog at Home Insemination Kit. Additionally, you can explore resources about home insemination at Make A Mom and pregnancy insights at March of Dimes.
Summary:
Spanking is a form of hitting that does not yield positive outcomes for children and can lead to increased aggression and emotional issues. Despite the overwhelming evidence against corporal punishment, many parents continue to support it. Understanding the root causes of this behavior, including emotional struggles and societal pressures, is crucial in breaking the cycle of violence. It’s essential to adopt positive discipline strategies that foster trust and respect instead of resorting to physical punishment.
Keyphrase: Spanking and discipline
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