Research shows that spanking and other forms of corporal punishment for children do not improve behavior. Instead, the data indicates that physical punishment can lead to aggression, problems at school, mental health issues, and even child abuse by parents. Despite that, surveys show that about 65 percent of Americans approve of spanking.
This hour, we discuss the facts, why some parents believe in spanking, and what the experts recommend as the most appropriate methods for disciplining children. In studio:
- Dr. Lynette Froula, pediatric emergency medicine physician at UR Medicine’s Golisano Children’s Hospital
- Emily Rittenberg, parenting educator for Nurture: Family Education & Guidance, and mother of two
- Ricardo Adams, recent graduate of the Parent Leadership Training Institute, and father of two
- Peggy Derivan, licensed mental health counselor, owner of Discoveries Counseling and Wellness Center, and mother of two
