Does spanking harm child development? Major study challenges common beliefs

A new study explores the long-debated effects of spanking on children’s development.

The researchers found that spanking explained less than 1% of changes in child outcomes.

This suggests that its negative effects may be overstated.

The study recommends that if spanking is used, the most effective approach is two open-handed swats on the bottom for children aged 2 to 6 .

Spanking had slightly better outcomes for younger children, particularly those aged 2 to 6 years .

As children grew older, spanking became less effective and was linked to slightly worse outcomes, particularly for children aged 8 to 11 years .

This suggests that spanking may be more appropriate for young children but less beneficial, or even harmful, as they age.