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Spanking in the USA: What to Do Instead - A Comprehensive Guide to Positive Discipline

Corbin Powell

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Published in Red White Bruises: Spanking In The USA What To Do Instead

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Red, White & Bruises: Spanking in the USA; What to do Instead

by Stephen J. Bavolek

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1889 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	38 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

Spanking is a form of corporal punishment that involves hitting a child with an open hand or an object. It is a common form of discipline in the United States, with a 2019 study finding that 70% of American parents spank their children.

However, there is a growing body of evidence that spanking is harmful to children. Studies have linked spanking to a range of negative outcomes, including:

Increased aggression
Lower self-esteem
Difficulty with relationships
Mental health problems
Physical injuries

In light of these findings, many experts recommend against spanking and instead advocate for positive discipline as a more effective and less harmful approach to child discipline.

What is positive discipline?

Positive discipline is a parenting philosophy that focuses on teaching children how to behave in a positive and respectful way. It is based on the belief that children are capable of learning and growing from their mistakes, and that they should be treated with respect and dignity.

Positive discipline techniques include:

Setting clear limits and expectations
Using positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior
Teaching children how to solve problems and make good decisions
Using time-outs or other consequences to discourage negative behavior

How to implement positive discipline

Implementing positive discipline in your home can take time and effort, but it is worth it in the long run. Here are some tips to get you started:

Set clear limits and expectations. Let your children know what behavior is expected of them, and be consistent with your expectations.
Use positive reinforcement. Praise your children when they behave well, and give them rewards for good behavior, such as extra privileges or special treats.
Teach children how to solve problems and make good decisions. Encourage your children to think about the consequences of their actions, and help them to develop problem-solving skills.
Use time-outs or other consequences to discourage negative behavior. When your children misbehave, use time-outs or other consequences to let them know that their behavior is not acceptable.
Be patient and consistent. It takes time and consistency to implement positive discipline, so don't give up if you don't see results immediately. Be patient with your children, and keep working at it, and you will eventually see the benefits.

Spanking is a harmful form of discipline that can have a lasting negative impact on children. Positive discipline is a more effective and less harmful alternative that can help children learn and grow in a healthy way.

If you are struggling to discipline your children, there are many resources available to help you. You can find support from your pediatrician, a family therapist, or a parenting class.

Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Remember, you are not alone, and there are many people who can help you create a positive and loving home environment for your children.

Red, White & Bruises: Spanking in the USA; What to do Instead

by Stephen J. Bavolek

5 out of 5