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American College of Pediatricians Questions Validity of Spanking Study |
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March 4, 2008
Press Release
Contact: Tom Benton, MD, President
American College of Pediatricians
Phone: 888-376-1877
mail@ACPeds.org
American College of Pediatricians Questions the Validity of Spanking Study
The American College of Pediatricians challenges the results of a negatively biased report on the effects of spanking released by Murray Straus, a leading opponent of the use of disciplinary spanking. His claim that spanking is linked to sexual problems in teens and adults is premature and unfounded. In fact, the study did not limit its investigation to the common use of ordinary spanking by loving parents with preschool children, but once again included the irresponsible use of abusive forms of corporal punishment with “children 13 years and older.” As a practice, Straus discovers detrimental results by including in his research unreasonable practices of physical punishment by irrational parents used with children at inappropriately older ages.
The American College of Pediatricians challenges anti-spanking researchers, such as Murray Straus, to produce responsible work that carefully defines the method and context of spanking being studied, that excludes abusive forms physical punishment, and that avoids focusing on teenaged children, where such punishment should never be used.
In its review of the spanking research, the American College of Pediatricians found that discipline spanking by parents, when properly used, can be an effective component in an overall discipline plan for children. To read the complete review and accompanying guidelines, click here.
The American College of Pediatricians is a national medical association of licensed physicians and healthcare professionals who specialize in the care of infants, children, and adolescents. The mission of the College is to enable all children to reach their optimal, physical and emotional health and well-being.
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