Spanking is probably one of the most common topics of ‘debate’ in parenting circles and in other groups where the discipline of children is considered.
Spanking mums and dads say that they never hit out of anger, and a planned and controlled slap is an appropriate punishment for a child’s transgressions.
On the other hand, non-spanking parents say that violence begets violence and that there are other, less severe ways to teach children to listen.
A few years ago, researchers at Tulane University’s School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine in New Orleans surveyed almost 2,500 mothers of 3-year-olds on their spanking habits during the previous month, as well as their children’s level of aggression and several factors involving family life.
2 years later, researchers discovered that the kids who were most frequently spanked were the ones who exhibited the most aggressive behaviour.
Image source: iStock
So does violence really beget violence? Experts say that the Tulane University study does not prove this is so, but it is perhaps the strongest study so far on spanking and aggression.
There are two prevailing theories:
- Children learn what they live, so spanked children learn to be more physically aggressive.
- Spanking causes higher levels of stress, which can have a negative effect on a child’s growth and development.
There are plenty of theories out there so we’d like to know — what do you, as a parent who disciplines your child, think?
Does spanking put kids at risk of being future bullies? Join the discussion below — share your thoughts with us by leaving a comment!
Reference:
Bean, A. (April 14, 2010). New Research Shows That Spanking Makes Kids Aggressive. Retrieved from https://www.rodalenews.com/spank-kids
