On Facebook, I recently came across an article on Odyssey that made my blood boil. The author argued that spanking is a form of discipline, not abuse. They claimed the studies that illustrate the harmful effects of spanking are inaccurate. However, this is not a subject in which there is opinion, only fact.
Numerous studies have emerged over the years proving the harmful effects of spanking your children, whether it be with an open hand, a belt, or a hanger. The University of Texas and the University of Michigan used FIFTY YEARS of research to prove that spanking is completely counter-active, making children more likely to defy and leading to anti-social behavior, mental health issues, and aggression. This study looked at over 160,000 children. And, unlike the author claimed, this study looked only at spanking, not other forms of physical abuse.
Sure, spanking may at first appear to work, because of course children are afraid of being hit. However, the research done makes it very clear that this is not a long-term solution, and only results in children growing more aggressive. Children will grow resentful and act out in fear.
Facts aside, let's look at this from a moral stand point. Why on earth would you want your children to fear you? Young children are trusting and have been placed in your hands with you as protector. Parents are meant to guide and nurture. The moment you purposefully inflict pain? That trust is abused and forever broken.
Yes, the adult is in charge. Children can be defiant. However, pain does not equal authority. Pain equals pain. So why with all this research, do 80% of parents still spank their children? Tradition? Lack of self-control? Frustration?
Since we struggle to begin a dialogue about something like spanking, it is difficult to say. However, with one in five youth experiencing a mental disorder, and a clear link between mental illness and spanking, it's safe to say it's time to spark this dialogue.
I may not be a parent, but I'm human enough to say you should keep your damn hands off your kids.
