
How Flogging, Beating Children Leave Them with Brain Changes, Aggression, Suicidal Behaviour
Leading pediatricians’ group in the United States (U.S.) has strengthened its advice against spanking and other physical punishment because of the potential for long-term harm.
In an updated policy released Monday, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says that can include aggression, brain changes, substance abuse and suicidal behavior in adulthood.
Previously, the AAP’s 1998 discipline policy said parents should be ‘encouraged’ not to spank.
Now, the group says parents should not spank, hit, slap, threaten, insult, humiliate or shame their children. Instead, they should find ‘healthy’ forms of discipline.
It says spanking is falling out of favor among parents, especially those with young children.
While some parents still believe it can lead to short-term improvements