Chocolate for the Mind

Spanking has been a long supported tradition in many American households.  However, many new studies show that spanking has adverse effects on children.  While some instances, such as a child running into the street, may require the immediate response of spanking, corporal punishment can create behavioral and social problems for children later in life.

A common problem for children who have been spanked is an increase in anti-social behavior.  A study by M. A. Straus, D. B. Sugarman, and J. Giles-Sims of the University of New Hampshire found that “more spanking at the start” of the study led to a “higher … level of ASB 2 years later” (Straus).   Corporal punishment aimed to reduce anti-social behavior tended instead to increase anti-social behavior.  The effects of spanking can also continue into adulthood.  In a survey of people who had never reported a history of abuse during childhood, MacMillan, Boyle, Wong, Duku, Fleming, and Walsh observed that ”those who reported being slapped or spanked” were more likely to develop “anxiety disorders,” “alcohol abuse or dependence,” and “externalizing problems” than those who were never spanked (MacMillan).  This proves that even corporal punishment not categorized as abuse can increase the risk of psychological disorders in adults.

Spanking is typically a short-term solution that can create long-term problems.  With all of the risks associated with spanking as a form of punishment, the possible benefits of corporal punishment seem less significant. 

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