Is Spanking a Form of Discipline

Is Spanking a Form of Discipline

When your child is screaming, running around like a crazy person or just won't listen and you have reached your breaking point what do you do? Do you snatch your child up by the arm and spank them? Or do you put them in time out, take their favorite toy away? These are questions that every parent and or caregiver will have to ask themselves and some point unaware of the consequences their choice may have on that child.

Discipline in itself is a hard thing for many to define as there are so many ways the word can be interrupted; however when we are talking about ways to discipline a child it should not be hard to define or understand it's true purpose. "Discipline is teaching done at the hands of a parent, the most loving, gentle hands most children will ever learn from. Never again will they be taught about life by anyone who has so much love for them." (Guarendi, 2003) Discipline is supposed to be used as a way to teach our children self control, limitations and consequences to their actions as well as providing and guiding them with alternate ways to express their angers and frustrations all with no harmful psychological or physical effects long or short term.

Spanking which can be defined as a number of slaps on the buttocks delivered in rapid succession is a form of discipline many parents use today. However because of the physical contact many claim that it is a form of corporal punishment and not a form of discipline. Corporal punishment can be defined as the infliction of physical pain upon a person's body as punishment for a crime or infraction. Spanking can not only lead to short term physical consequences upon a child but very serious long term mental emotional and psychological damage as well. It is also important to keep in mind that spanking is usually done in the heat of the moment and has a higher rate of getting out of control than any other form. Multiple studies have shown that children who have been spanked show higher levels of antisocial behavior such as cheating, lying disobedience at school, breaking things deliberately and not feeling sorry after misbehaving.

There are other options for a parent when it comes to discipline that still allows them to feel like they have stern control over their children without using any physical force or causing long term damage to their child what so ever. Authoritative is a style of discipline that encourages children to be independent and make choices, but still allows parents to set the limits and makes rules for their children while controlling their actions. Extensive verbal give and take is allowed, while parents are still warm and nurturing toward their child. Children of authoritative parents are socially competent, self reliant and socially responsible. These children tend to have a better understanding of rules and consequences. Authoritative parents help children to attain independence through personal goal achievement, developing and encouraging the ability and responsibility to think for