A new study suggests children who are spanked more than twice a month are more likely to suffer from mental health issues as adults.
Researchers at Tulane University followed 2500 children, ages 3 to 5, in 20 different cities.
Their findings indicate the odds of a child being more aggressive at age 5 increased 50 percent if that child was spanked more than twice a month.
A local child psychologist, Dr. Douglas Goldsmith, says instead of spanking to gain compliance, parents should instead have a plan.
“The plan is you’re not listening to me, and have them sit in a chair just for a second or two to get their attention,” says Goldsmith. “And as soon as the child has calmed down in the chair, say to the child ‘go do what I asked you.’ If the child says no, they stay in the chair. This process keeps the parent very calm, it interferes with the child’s process before they get out of control … and it increases compliance.”
