Spanking in the American Family
The disciplinary act of spanking has been proven to cause behavioral problems in children. Although considered an ineffective and inappropriate form of discipline, spanking is still common in many American households, specifically those with children under 5 years old.
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In Support of Spanking
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About 61 percent of American parents believe spanking is a legitimate form of punishment, according to a 2000 study by DYG Inc. A third of the 3,000 people surveyed believe spanking is an effective means of developing self control. About 90 percent of American families claimed to have spanked their children at least once.
In Opposition of Spanking
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Those against the practice of spanking believe that it is an ineffective and inappropriate form of punishment that does nothing to curb poor behavior. The American Academy of Pediatrics is firmly against spanking, labeling the discipline as "corporal punishment."
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Alternatives to Spanking
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When a child acts out, a parent has many options to them other than raising his hand. Violence is not the only form of discipline, and parents should consider taking away toys, TV privileges or the time-tested practice of "grounding."
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