A comprehensive study spanning five decades has confirmed that spanking does more harm than good. The question of whether to spank or not has been a topic of debate for many parents. Despite its widespread practice, recent research indicates that hitting children yields no advantages and may even lead to negative consequences.
In a groundbreaking study published in the Journal of Family Psychology, experts from the University of Texas and the University of Michigan reviewed 75 studies conducted over 50 years, encompassing over 150,000 children. Their findings are clear: spanking is not an effective disciplinary method, shows no positive results, and can actually lead to worse behavior in the long term. For the purposes of this analysis, spanking was characterized as an “open-handed hit on the behind or extremities,” a form of hitting that many parents still consider acceptable. The researchers discovered that children who are spanked in this manner tend to be more defiant, exhibit aggression, face cognitive challenges, display anti-social behavior, struggle with mental health, and may resort to hitting as a means of communication.
Dr. Sarah Thompson, one of the study’s authors, noted the irony: “Parents often resort to spanking when their children are already being aggressive. This teaches kids that physical punishment is an acceptable way to get what they want.”
Spanking is often a generational habit, with many justifying it with excuses: it’s merely a light tap, it can help in urgent situations, it’s the only way to discipline young children effectively, it instills respect, and the common refrain, “Our parents did it, and we turned out fine.” However, the evidence is clear—spanking is an outdated practice that lacks the benefits many believe it offers. “The consistency of these findings across a large sample of children is remarkable,” Dr. Thompson explained to CBS News. “There is a strong connection between spanking and negative outcomes, and no link to positive results.”
I remember the feelings of anger and shame that accompanied being spanked as a child, which ultimately eroded my trust in my parents. Because of this, I vowed never to spank my own children. Yet, breaking the cycle of learned behavior can be challenging. It has taken significant time and effort, as well as extensive reading on positive discipline strategies, for me to discover effective, loving, and respectful ways to parent.
While it’s essential to respect that each parent has the right to choose their disciplinary methods—as long as they aren’t abusive or illegal—it’s worthwhile to explore alternatives to spanking. This practice should be left in the past. “Many assume that not spanking means being a pushover,” Dr. Thompson pointed out, “but you can maintain high expectations and be a firm parent without resorting to physical punishment.”
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Summary
Recent research has conclusively shown that spanking is ineffective as a disciplinary method, leading to harmful behavioral outcomes in children. Despite longstanding beliefs supporting spanking, the evidence indicates it yields no positive results. Parents are encouraged to explore alternative methods that foster respect and understanding without physical punishment.