Directory
Program
- Confidentiality
- Assessment
Services
- Advantages
- Library
Email
Phone: 437-4776
FastCounter
by bCentral
View best @
800x600 pixels
Internet Explorer
"Spanking Our Children"
Few things reach the level of controversy in the world of parenting that corporal punishment does. In recent years, this issue has been visited and revisited time and again with sharply contrasting viewpoints. In May of this year, the Montreal Gazette reported on a study by Dr. Harriet MacMillan that was published last October in the Canadian Medical Association Journal. It came down squarely on the side of abolishing corporal punishment of our children. MacMillan's research was generated from 9,953 Ontario residents and associated frequency of slapping and spanking with a lifetime prevalence of psychiatric problems, including alcohol abuse and dependence, as well as anxiety.
Although the message behind MacMillan's research is not to criticize parents, but to emphasize the importance of alternative strategies for discipline, she has been widely and sharply criticized. Colleagues who feel that spankings are a far cry from physical abuse and that it is irresponsible to make such definite claims have critiqued her methods and conclusions. One of her critics responded that we are better at protecting children that ever before and that, if we go too far, we undermine parents and make them feel unnecessarily guilty. Other concerns came from frustrated parents who felt that her conclusions only escalated the lack of control over their children that parents tend to lack in this day and age.
| A major problem with corporal punishment is that it is often implemented when parents are very angry and even out-of-control, increasing the likelihood that excessive force is used. |
Perhaps our energy is best spent in teaching parents the importance of respect in effective discipline. Consistency and the use of appropriate consequences often take more effort on the part of the parent than a spanking. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of consistency and non-physical consequences (time outs, withdrawal of privileges, etc.) is fairly well established, especially if it is begun early. We all know that the job of a parent is not meant to be easy and that, at many times, it is exhausting. These are the times to seek help.
There are also parenting support groups in the community and a vast array of books and literature to help make your job more manageable. Do not hesitate to contact your local EFAP branch for further information.
Unauthorized duplication strictly prohibited
Lower Mainland Assessment & Referral Service©