Should Parents Be Allowed To Spank Children Essay

When raising a child, it is ultimately the responsibility of the parents to teach their children right from wrong. There are many different methods of disciplining a child. Some are viewed as more “acceptable” than others. Whether parents chose the more “acceptable” method, such as a time out, or the less “acceptable” method of spanking, both are trying to teach discipline. Webster’s dictionary defines spanking as “to strike on the buttocks with an open hand” (O’Callaghan 2). However, parent’s definitions may vary. The ways of teaching children has changed drastically, which has made spanking a major controversy in the last century. One of the main reasons it has caused such a fuss is because there is a blurred line in today’s world of what is acceptable punishment and what is …show more content…
Parents have to be cautious when disciplining their children to avoid trouble. Unfortunately, there is not a set behavior that warrants a spanking. Some sources say that it is okay to spank because it aids in building a strong relationship of respect with the parent and child, and it results in well-mannered children and adults. Parents also say that it is normal to spank children and that it is just disciplinary actions (“The Spanking Debate” 1). These are the parents who believe a little tough love will help their child become a better individual once they reach adulthood. Other sources say no to spanking because it contradicts those who think it can gain respect, and goes on to say that parents who spank out of anger lose the respect of their children and in return gain a child who is scared of them (Giles 2). Spanking because of anger also leads a child to think that it is okay to use violence as a solution when they get angry. They also believe it leads to negative behavioral issues (Rosellini 2). Some even say that there should be a warning placed on birth certificates to discourage