Should Children be Spanked?

My beliefs are and have always been that a child should never be hit. Some people may think that spanking is not considered hitting, but to me it is in every way. Technology and getting in touch with how people think, learn, and react to things is so advanced now that there are so many different and more effective ways to discipline a child who is misbehaving that spanking should be out of the question.

It is known that the majority of parents who spank their children just do it because they are not aware of those other methods. Or another thought is that

they do it because of their childhood experiences. Which does make sense because you continue to do what you are comfortable with, but you have to stay open minded and learn that times are changing and there are other ways to discipline your child. When a child is being spanked it is usually against their will. Does that not violate children’s rights? I remember being a little younger then I am now and a friend of mine use to get spanked by his grandmother. They were afraid to do anything there. And they had so much resentment towards her for hurting them that they never took the time to know her. I believe spanking leaves a lot more marks on a child then them just learning that they did something wrong.

Other ways of disciplining a child may be when there is danger, grasp an infant’s hand instead of slapping (Leach, 1996). When the infant is holding something that you do not want him to have, trade a toy instead of forcing the item from him (Leach, 1996). He will only hold on tighter if you try to take something away. Baby-proof your living space so that there is nothing dangerous or breakable in reach (Ruben, 1996; Samalin & Whitney, 1995). Leave the room if you feel your temper flaring, making sure that the baby is in a safe place like a playpen (Leach, 1996). Make sure the environment is safe by removing any harmful dangerous objects (Samalin & Whitney, 1995). It is natural for toddlers to want to explore their environment. Always supervise toddlers; it is unrealistic to expect a toddler to play safely without adult supervision for more than a few minutes (Leach, 1996). Avoid direct clashes with toddlers, which will only make both of you angry and frustrated. Instead, try a diversion or distraction (Leach, 1996). Many problem situations can be eased with something funny or unexpected, such as tickling a mildly upset child (Ruben, 1996). Use your size and strength to eliminate situations (Leach, 1996). Simply lift a child out of the bath or carry a child who refuses to walk. If you start to deliver a slap, divert it to your knee or a table (Leach, 1996). This sound will interrupt the behavior without hitting the child.

So in conclusion I believe children should not be spanked. They are smart enough and do understand by talking to them; it may take a couple of times or you having a serious talk with them before an action really takes place. There are other ways to solve the problem though.