Should kids be punished for bad behavior?
The AAP policy statement, “Effective Discipline to Raise Healthy Children,” highlights why it’s important to focus on teaching good behavior rather than punishing bad behavior. Research shows that spanking, slapping and other forms of physical punishment don’t work well to correct a child’s behavior.
Why children should not be physically disciplined?
Many studies have shown that physical punishment — including spanking, hitting and other means of causing pain — can lead to increased aggression, antisocial behavior, physical injury and mental health problems for children.
Why is physical punishment effective?
A spanking “gets it over with.” It avoids guilt feelings, avoids time and effort spent on reparations, quickly dispels the parent’s anger and allows the child to forget about the wrongdoing.
Why is it important to punish your child?
Disciplining your child means teaching them responsible behaviour and self-control. With appropriate and consistent discipline, your child will learn about consequences and taking responsibility for their own actions. The ultimate aim is to encourage the child to learn to manage both their feelings and behaviour.
Is punishment necessary for discipline?
However, studies show that punishment is often not necessary nor is it effective in disciplining children. But no punishment does not mean there is no discipline. Researchers have found that non-coercive discipline, contingent encouragement, monitoring and problem solving are far more effective in disciplining.
Why is physical punishment harmful?
Physical punishment is associated with increased child aggression, antisocial behaviour, lower intellectual achievement, poorer quality of parent–child relationships, mental health problems (such as depression), and diminished moral internalisation.
Is physical punishment effective for changing behavior?
No study has found that physical punishment enhances developmental health. Most child physical abuse occurs in the context of punishment. A professional consensus is emerging that parents should be supported in learning nonviolent, effective approaches to discipline.