Though spanking has been passed on from generation to generation in many families, many experts agree that it is not, and never has been, an effective way to discipline a child.  Children who are spanked may refrain from repeating a misdemeanor rather than risk another spanking, but they obey only as long as the risk is present.  Spanking may stop a child’s undesirable action in its tracks, bit it won’t change behavior.  It doesn’t teach children how to differentiate right from wrong  (only what gets them spanked and what doesn’t) – which is, after all, the most important goal of discipline.

There are many way to teach a child from right and wrong.  One of the toughest things about being a parent is the power that comes with it.  Yes power.  I have seen parents scold there children after they wonder off but it was mainly because the parent was not paying attention to the child.  The parent looks up and doesn’t see there child then goes into a panic and scolds the child when they find him or her.  Or how bout when a child is given everything and finally the parent says NO and the child goes into a fit and then the parent gives in to quiet or appease the child.  That is the beginning of a pattern that the child will know that if he/she throws a tantrum they will get what they want.

Now don’t get me wrong.  There are good and bad children and sorry mom’s and dad’s they are born that way.  Spanking them will not make them good.  The most important thing we have to remember is that teaching them the difference between right and wrong is the goal.  Why is stealing bad?  Why do you not tease other people but encourage them?  Those types of thoughts are the ones that will build the foundation for who your child will choose to become.  When I say choose I stress that because ultimately it is there choice you are only there to guide them.  Hope that helps.

Mark

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