This paper will discuss the reasons parents use discipline with their children, in order to further understand the goal of discipline methods. Additionally, this paper will analyze arguments from proponents of corporal punishment in an effort to comprehend those beliefs. Finally, arguments against corporal punishment will be discussed, and will show clearly that, while corporal punishment may be a legal and accepted method of discipline, it should not be used due to its ineffective

The use of corporal punishment also appears to promote anger. Gunnoe and Mariner (1997) found that corporal punishment at home was linked with the likelihood of increased fighting at school within five years (Straus, 54). Straus also points out that studies have linked corporal punishment to girlfriend abuse, spousal abuse, masochistic sexual activities, and alcohol abuse (Straus, 59). Even proponents of corporal punishment note an increase in anger in children receiving this treatment (Bolotin, SM33).

Still further, studies have shown that spanking a child does not improve behaviors over time, but instead, serve only to stop immediate behaviors. The study by Gershoff found that higher levels of corporal punishment in children were linked to future behavioral problems (Straus, 52). Additionally, studies have found that children who are punished through corporal punishment have no lower of a recidivism rate of negative behaviors than those punished through other forms (Straus, 58). Straus also points out that there is strong evidence to suggest that other methods of discipline actually work more effectively over time (Goods, A8). Thus, one can conclude, using corporal punishment does not serve the purpose for which it is intended, that of a correction of future behavior.

A second negative effect of spanking is the devaluation effect on the child, which can cause antisocial behaviors and depression. In the Gershoff study, the level of depression in teen and adult years was found to be linked to the level of spanking in the pre-teen years (Straus, 52). Further studies, including those by Straus (1997) and Gunnoe and Mariner (1997) also showed a direct link between spanking and antisocial behaviors five years following the study (Straus, 53). Ion both cases, the ill effects of corporal punishment were found to affect nearly all socioeconomic groups, as well as all races (Straus, 54). Both depression and antisocial behaviors have been linked psychologically to devaluing experiences in childhood, which make the youth feel less wanted, or less worthy (Straus, 56).

There can be no question that corporal punishment is not an effective means of discipline for children, and should be avoided at all costs. Based on several studies, corporal punishment is no more effective than other methods of deterrence, and can actually cause long lasting harmful effects, such as anger, antisocial behaviors, future abuse, alcohol abuse, and a low sense of self worth. Further, corporal punishment can leave a lasting sense of guilt and remorse in parents, hindering their ability to provide direction

Some common words found in the essay are:
Gunnoe Mariner, Goode A8, Flagler C5, Arizona Arkansas, B9 Corporal, Bolotin SM34, , Elizabeth Gershoff, corporal punishment, Lin Gordon, Bolotin SM, teach children, antisocial behaviors, straus 52, parents discipline, flagler c5, discipline children, goode a8, effectively teach children, forms punishment, own parents, gunnoe mariner 1997, argue corporal punishment, corporal punishment appears, corporal punishment note,
Approximate Word count = 1759
Approximate Pages = 7 (250 words per page double spaced)