Guidelines against spanking and other physical forms of punishment have been around for decades, and now, the America Academy of Pediatrics is doubling down. In guidance published in the journal Pediatrics" the group recommends using “healthy forms of discipline” such as positive reinforcement, and setting limits and expectations.
The organization says spanking and other forms of physical punishment, threatening, insulting, and shaming are OUT. Instead, pediatricians are now tasked with sharing data on available discipline options and helping parents choose what to use.
Time outs are recommended for toddlers and preschoolers, while the preferred means for older children is letting natural consequences play out. In the case of running into traffic, that natural consequence is having to hold the parent’s hand while crossing the street from now on.
Do you agree with this new study?