Is Physical Discipline Abuse?

Physical discipline has been a common method of getting children to behave in desired ways. In fact, in India, slapping or spanking children has been considered a normal way of disciplining across generations, and it may still be followed in many households. While some parents may find it an effective way of disciplining, recent research has questioned its effectiveness, suggesting that physical discipline may quickly turn into abuse. 

Understanding the difference between discipline and abuse is crucial to ensure that discipline doesn’t come at the cost of a child’s well-being

Physical Discipline and Abuse: What’s The Difference

Physical discipline typically involves actions like spanking or slapping to correct misbehavior. While some people believe this form of disciplining may work when used mildly and in moderation, multiple research studies suggest that physical discipline can harm children’s mental and physical health.  

Physical abuse, on the other hand, involves deliberate and excessive use of physical force or aggression that causes harm, injury, or emotional distress. 

The main difference between physical discipline and abuse is the intensity, frequency, and intent. That being said, even well-intentioned disciplinary actions can become abusive if they instill fear and harm the child’s well-being.

The Impact of Physical Discipline 

Irrespective of the intent, it is well-documented in research that physical abuse has numerous negative effects on children. Many of these effects may even extend well into adulthood

• Low Self-esteem

There is a strong body of literature to suggest that children who grow up with physical discipline such as slapping have low self-esteem. When physical punishment is used as a primary method of disciplining, children may believe they are undeserving of love, leading to feelings of worthlessness.

• Behavioural Issues

Research suggests that using physical discipline may make children more aggressive and rebellious instead of encouraging positive behaviours. Some studies also suggest that physical discipline increases the risk of experiencing or perpetuating intimate partner violence in adulthood.

• Risk of Physical Injury

Even if a parent simply intends to discipline, physical punishment can cause injuries. Sometimes, what starts as mild slapping or spanking can escalate to harsher forms of punishment, especially if a parent is unable to control their own aggression.

• Mental Health Issues In Adulthood

Research suggests that children who experienced physical forms of discipline are at high risk for developing mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as adults. They may also struggle with emotional regulation, trust issues, and forming healthy relationships.

Alternative Ways of Disciplining

Instead of physical disciplining, there are various alternative methods that parents can use to bring about positive changes in children. They are:

• Time Out

Placing a child in a quiet space for a few minutes allows them to calm down and reflect on their actions without physical punishment.

• Reward Positive Behaviours

Rewards can act as a great motivator for children. Consider rewarding good behavior through praise or small rewards. This helps children understand what is expected of them.

• Give Them Choices

Allow children to choose between behaviours that are acceptable to you. Offering children choices rather than commanding them helps them feel in control and likely to follow the rules.

• Allow The Natural Consequences

Instead of punishing children, allow them to face the natural consequences of their behavior. For example, they get cold when they refuse to wear sweaters in winter. This can help teach responsibility and accountability.

• Taking Away Privileges

Take away privileges such as play time or screen time for misbehavior. This can help teach acceptable behavior without physical punishment.

Conclusion:

While physical discipline may begin with good intentions, it can easily turn into abuse and have long-lasting effects on a child’s well-being. There is ample evidence to suggest that physical discipline can lead to low self-esteem, behavioral problems, and strained relationships even in adulthood. Instead, alternative methods, such as positive reinforcement and natural consequences, can be used to teach children responsibility. In the end, remember that the goal of discipline isn’t to harm or scare the child but to guide them with love and understanding.

References:

1. Afifi, T. O., Mota, N. P., Dasiewicz, P., MacMillan, H. L., & Sareen, J. (2012). Physical punishment and mental disorders: Results from a nationally representative US sample. Pediatrics, 130(2), 184–192. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2011-2947
2. Alternatives to Physical Punishment | Emory School of Medicine. (n.d.). Retrieved February 28, 2025, from https://med.emory.edu/departments/pediatrics/divisions/neonatology/dpc/alternatives-physical-punishment.html
3. Alternatives to Spanking | Child Development and Family Center. (n.d.). Northern Illinois University. Retrieved February 28, 2025, from https://chhs.niu.edu/child-center/resources/articles/alternatives-to-spanking.shtml
4. Gershoff, E. T., & Grogan-Kaylor, A. (2016). Spanking and Child Outcomes: Old Controversies and New Meta-Analyses. Journal of Family Psychology : JFP : Journal of the Division of Family Psychology of the American Psychological Association (Division 43), 30(4), 453–469. https://doi.org/10.1037/fam0000191
5. What does the evidence tell us about physical punishment of children? (n.d.). Retrieved February 28, 2025, from https://aifs.gov.au/resources/short-articles/what-does-evidence-tell-us-about-physical-punishment-children