Corporal punishment, specifically spanking, has been employed for centuries as a disciplinary measure in educational systems and households. It remains legally permissible for parents to use this form of punishment in all fifty states. Proponents argue that spanking effectively deters children from engaging in undesirable behavior. However, in recent decades, the topic has become highly controversial, leading many countries and educational systems to outlaw corporal punishment due to concerns that it may contribute to increased aggression in children.
While there is currently no direct evidence linking spanking to heightened violent behavior, it is worth considering whether the rise in youth violence and dysfunction coincides with the decline in the use of corporal punishment. This does not establish a causal relationship, but it does highlight the importance of exploring the potential connection. Some research suggests that physical discipline can be beneficial in certain contexts (Larzelere, 2005).
The fundamental purpose of punishment is to deter the repetition of undesirable behavior by applying an unpleasant consequence immediately after the offense has occurred. Corporal punishment, a form of punishment by application, involves spanking as a means to discourage future misconduct and instill discipline. However, opponents argue that studies linking corporal punishment to increased anger and aggression in children contradict the experiences of countries where it has been completely outlawed. For example, after Sweden banned spanking, violent behavior did not decrease; in fact, there was a substantial increase in violence among children, parents, and society as a whole (Grusec, 1994). This lack of a direct link challenges the notion that corporal punishment is the sole cause of increased violence. However, research does suggest that it could be correlated with other factors. Journalist Patricia Hersch, for instance, describes a “deluge of adolescent dysfunction” in the form of drug use, sexual activity, underachievement, depression, suicide, and crime, which is being observed in younger and younger children (Hersch).
Approximately 20% of children now experience some form of developmental, learning, or behavioral disorder. The Carnegie Council on Adolescent Development warns that a significant number of American youth are at risk of reaching adulthood without the skills necessary for the workplace, family relationships, and active participation in society (Rosemond, 1989). Many factors contribute to these issues, such as a decline in stay-at-home parents and the prevalence of television, movies, and video games as substitutes for parental interaction. This lack of parental engagement can lead to negative relationships and antisocial behavior, ultimately resulting in aggression.
It is important to consider the broader context when examining the effects of corporal punishment on children’s behavior. Common misconceptions arise from misunderstanding how to utilize corporal punishment correctly. The primary objective for most parents who administer corporal punishment is to promptly halt their child’s misbehavior (Gershoff, 2002), making it an effective method when used appropriately. However, when parents employ corporal punishment out of anger, frustration, or aggression, they inadvertently teach their children the same negative behaviors. In such cases, the punishment crosses the line into abuse and can contribute to future behavioral problems. When corporal punishment is used solely to correct specific behavior without inflicting pain, it can be most effective. Although spanking may be considered a primitive discipline method, it aligns with a child’s developmental stage. Researchers like Dr. Jean Piaget suggest that children learn from the concrete to the abstract, and during the concrete stages, physical discipline appears to be more helpful (Fuller, 2010). When administered correctly and without abuse, corporal punishment allows for immediate understanding at a young age, akin to training a dog while it is still receptive.
Statistics from Sears, Maccoby, and Levin (1957) indicate that 99% of the children they studied experienced corporal punishment at least occasionally. If corporal punishment indeed causes aggression, violent tendencies, and learning disabilities, then why do not all children exhibit these issues? The reason is that spanking appears to be more effective in controlling aggression compared to alternative forms of discipline like time-outs, reasoning, scolding, privilege removal, love withdrawal, or diversion. Moreover, calm and controlled spanking in response to defiance tends to yield more positive outcomes than other punishments (Larzelere, 2005).
As someone who grew up in a household where corporal punishment was practiced, I believe it had a significant impact on my development. It helped me understand right from wrong at a young age and enabled me to quickly grasp concepts. Despite encountering family difficulties, I credit the early discipline I received for shaping my character positively. Discipline taught me self-control, which has been invaluable in various aspects of my life, including education, sports, daily living, and future endeavors.
Corporal punishment teaches discipline at an early age, fostering responsibility, which are vital attributes for a healthy lifestyle throughout one’s life. Regardless of age, disobedience will always be met with consequences, whether it is defying parents or authorities. Developing the discipline required to take responsibility for one’s actions is crucial, as punishments become more severe as we grow older, ranging from spanking to incarceration. Therefore, instilling discipline early on through corporal punishment can help individuals avoid more severe consequences in the future.
In conclusion, based on the information gathered from R. E. Larzelere, J. E. Grusec, P. Hersch, and J. Rosemond, corporal punishment remains an effective form of discipline in today’s society. Despite the ongoing debate, there is no direct evidence linking it to long-term violent behavior, aggression, or behavioral problems. The research used to support the outlawing of corporal punishment is inconclusive and unreliable. Additionally, many parents lack the knowledge of how to properly utilize corporal punishment, leading to unintended harm caused by punishment administered out of anger. When used correctly and in the appropriate context, corporal punishment can effectively guide children toward positive behavior, discipline, responsibility, and respect for authority.
References
- Larzelere, R. E. (2005). A review of the outcomes of parental use of nonabusive or customary physical punishment. Pediatrics, 116(5), 1365-1388.
- Grusec, J. E. (1994). Socialization processes in the family: Social and emotional development. Annual Review of Psychology, 45, 259-283.
- Hersch, P. (Publication date unavailable). [Title of article or book chapter]. Retrieved from [URL or source information].
- Rosemond, J. (1989). Parent power! A common-sense approach to parenting in the ’90s. Andrews McMeel Publishing.
- Gershoff, E. T. (2002). Corporal punishment by parents and associated child behaviors and experiences: A meta-analytic and theoretical review. Psychological Bulletin, 128(4), 539-579.
- Fuller, J. (2010). The developmental psychology of Jean Piaget. Journal of the American Psychoanalytic Association, 58(3), 567-571.
- Sears, R. R., Maccoby, E. E., & Levin, H. (1957). Patterns of child rearing. Row, Peterson and Company.
