Discipline - What Are Your Thoughts?

[Cherub]

Just curious what the opinions of those of this forum is on discipline. We appear to have a wide range of past, present and perhaps future parents from various backgrounds. So, I'm curious to know how everyone feels about this subject especially given the current political climate on this subject.

In some states they've already made it a crime to spank your child and others appear to be poised to do the same. What do you think? Should it be a crime to spank your child? Should government be involved in such a matter?

Please share.

[Cherub]

I recall when we were looking into adoption 8 years ago the social worker we met with specifically asked us how we felt about corporal punishment (spanking). I had to ask what she meant since I was unfamiliar with the term. I then asked why. She said that if we stated we believe in spanking the state wouldn't allow us to have a child.

[Cherub]

Now it's being said that new studies show that if you spank your child they will have sexual problems as adults

Do you buy that?

I don't buy into that study in any way

[**nicky**]

Spanking may do a lot to relieve the stress of the parent, but all the child learns is that it's OK to wallop someone if you disagree with them.
Children are programmed to learn. Adults are supposed to be smarter than children. Children try to push boundaries because it's one of the ways they learn. If a child is not doing what you want, you should be able to persuade them. If words don't do it, you have options like rewards or removal of priviledges.
Above all, you need to be consistent - both parents need to agree on the message, and act like grown-ups.
Becoming a parent is relatively easy. It takes a lot of thought and hard work to be a good one.

[Robin]

Spanking may do a lot to relieve the stress of the parent, but all the child learns is that it's OK to wallop someone if you disagree with them.
Children are programmed to learn. Adults are supposed to be smarter than children. Children try to push boundaries because it's one of the ways they learn. If a child is not doing what you want, you should be able to persuade them. If words don't do it, you have options like rewards or removal of priviledges.
Above all, you need to be consistent - both parents need to agree on the message, and act like grown-ups.
Becoming a parent is relatively easy. It takes a lot of thought and hard work to be a good one.
Excellent points! I 100% agree with you.