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American College of Pediatricians Supports Spanking

Family News in Focus

Doctors say reasoning and explanation don't work with young children.

Parents who feel their unruly, young children need an old-fashioned spanking now and then have the support of the American College of Pediatricians (ACP). Research from the group finds that spanking “can be a useful and necessary part of a successful disciplinary plan.”

Dr. Den Trumbull, the report's principal author, said: “Spanking is, at times, necessary with young children, because reasoning and explanation are insufficient in persuading them to have good behavior.

“Spanking should be used proactively. The child should be forewarned; it should always be administered in private, and followed by a loving embrace of the child with an explanation for the reason of the spanking.”

The ACP statement puts it in direct opposition to the American Medical Association, which condemns spanking and links it to youth violence.

Marjorie Lindner-Gunnoe, a psychology professor at Calvin College, said the ACP position is refreshing.

“It’s nice to see a little bit more balanced approach," she said. "We’re getting some multiple views. In the past, the views have been quite one-sided.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION
The American College of Pediatricians offers more information online, including guidelines that detail when spanking is appropriate.

(NOTE: Referral to Web sites not produced by Focus on the Family is for informational purposes only and does not necessarily constitute an endorsement of the sites' content.)