Spanking as a form of child discipline has long been a topic of debate, but mounting research suggests that it might cause more harm than good. While some parents consider it an effective way to teach discipline, experts and scientists increasingly warn about its potential long-term consequences.
Spanking and Human Rights
Globally, attitudes toward corporal punishment are shifting. In 53 countries, spanking and other forms of physical punishment have been banned, with many more nations working toward similar legislation. The United Nations, through its “Convention on the Rights of the Child” treaty, has labeled corporal punishment as a violation of human rights, emphasizing the importance of dignity and physical integrity for children.
Despite this, many parents still believe in spanking as an acceptable form of discipline, often dismissing concerns raised by mental health experts. However, research indicates that spanking may lead to unintended psychological and behavioral outcomes.
What the Research Shows
A comprehensive study published in the Journal of Family Psychology reviewed over 100 studies involving more than 160,000 children. The findings revealed that spanking is linked to 13 out of 17 negative psychological outcomes typically associated with physical abuse. These include increased aggression, antisocial behavior, cognitive difficulties, and mental health challenges.
Elizabeth Gershoff, a leading researcher at the University of Texas at Austin, concluded that spanking fails to achieve the intended results. It neither fosters long-term compliance nor corrects unwanted behaviors. Instead, it can worsen behavioral and emotional problems in children.
Dr. Alan Kazdin from Yale University shares this perspective, stating, “You cannot punish away unwanted behaviors.” Kazdin emphasizes that spanking may yield short-term results because it instills fear, but it does not lead to meaningful or lasting behavioral changes. He adds that physical punishment simply doesn’t align with the way a child’s brain processes rewards and punishments.
The Cycle of Violence
Research has also suggested that spanking could perpetuate a cycle of violence. A 2011 study published in Child Abuse and Neglect found that children who experience physical punishment are more likely to use violence as a way to resolve conflicts later in life. This intergenerational transmission of violence underscores the potential for unintended consequences beyond childhood.
Although the immediate effects of spanking might not seem harmful, experts warn that it can subtly alter a child’s perceptions and emotional responses. Dr. Gershoff notes that spanking can influence how a child processes feelings and interactions, potentially contributing to long-term behavioral issues.
A Differing Viewpoint
Not all experts agree on the blanket condemnation of spanking. Robert Larzelere, a professor at Oklahoma State University, argues that many studies fail to distinguish between moderate, non-abusive spanking and severe corporal punishment. He suggests that conditional spanking—used sparingly and in combination with other disciplinary methods, such as timeouts or restricting privileges—may not have the same negative outcomes.
Larzelere and others advocate for a balanced approach, emphasizing that physical punishment should never be the primary or sole method of discipline. Effective communication and non-physical strategies are seen as more productive in teaching children appropriate behaviors.
Final Thoughts
The debate over spanking is unlikely to be resolved anytime soon, as cultural norms and personal beliefs vary widely. While some parents continue to use spanking as a disciplinary tool, experts on both sides agree on one thing: it should never be the main method for addressing unwanted behavior.
Instead, parents are encouraged to explore alternative approaches, such as clear communication, timeouts, or other non-physical consequences. By fostering understanding and connection, caregivers can help children develop healthy behaviors without the risks associated with physical punishment.