What About The Spanking Of Our Children?
Categories: Church of Christ Bulletin ArticlesThis writer grew up in a time (1940‘s and 1950‘s) when spanking was considered one of the standard methods for disciplining and correcting a child’s behavior. It was not considered abusive in any sense of the word. However, for the past twenty to thirty years, so-called child psychology “experts” have been telling us that spanking is harmful, that it teaches children to use violence as the solution to all problems, and will eventually lead to child abuse. The question is, “Does it?”
Dr. Robert E. Larzelere, Associate Professor of Psychology at Oklahoma State University, concludes through a thorough study of this subject, that the above claims are incorrect. Through his study, he found that children who are spanked, do not become more aggressive, and that parents who never spank their children may actually be more prone to child abuse than those who do, because the mounting tension in the child is never released until it explodes in a violent rage.
Through his research on the subject, Dr. Larzelere believes that spanking should be of limited severity, and should be used in conjunction with other disciplinary methods and positive parenting techniques.
Once again, the wisdom of the Proverb writer Solomon proves true, as he states:
“He who spares his rod hates his son, But he who loves him disciplines him promptly [early] (Proverbs 13:24).
“Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child, But the rod of correction will drive it far from him” (Proverbs 22:15).
“Do not withhold correction from a child, For if you beat him with a rod, he will not die, You shall beat him with a rod, And deliver his soul from hell [sheol]” (Proverbs 23:13-14).
Brethren and friends, my father spanked me on my behind several times when I was growing up (and I deserved every one of them!), in order to get my attention and correct my obstinate and rebellious behavior.
I am living proof that what the Proverb writer wrote in Proverbs 23:13 is indeed true, because I’m not only still alive today, as a result of those spankings my father gave me, I’m a much better person, spiritually and morally speaking because of those spankings. I realize that he truly loved me and had my best interests at heart, and I highly respect him because of his care and concern for me (cf. Hebrews 12:5-11; Psalm 119:75).
If we truly love our children, we won’t hesitate to administer immediate and effective discipline when required (Ecclesiastes 8:11; cf. Psalm 50:16-22; Isaiah 26:10), and that includes spanking .
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