A step-father in San Diego, California has brought the issue of spanking into the public eye lately. A video recently taken by a neighbor shows Anthony Sanchez whipping his step-son with a belt after he dropped a baseball when they were playing pass. He has since been arrested on suspicion of felony child abuse.
The boy's grandfather states that the child has ADHD and a lot of behavioral problems. He reports the family does not feel time out has been effective. He states that spanking seems to work however.
It raises a question about whether or not spanking is a healthy way to discipline children. Although it may be effective in making kids behave in the short-term, does it work in the long-term? It's important to examine the difference between consequences and punishments.
It's also essential to take a look at what your child is learning from the consequences you are giving. Do you want your child to learn that he should behave out of fear? Or do you want him to learn how to make healthy choices for himself? It is important to find effective positive and negative consequences that are healthy for your child.