Overview
Child discipline is used to show children how to learn right from wrong and understand there are consequences to their actions. This is important for them so that they learn how to be productive in society and become well-rounded adults. Child discipline can be controversial because everyone has their own parenting technique. Establishing safe boundaries and keeping the lines of communication open between parent and child are the basic fundamentals of child discipline.
Reasons
Children grow up with a fresh and unbiased view on the world. As they age, they are exposed to external stimuli including peers, school, other adults and their own family members. All of these stimuli are grasped by their minds and they develop a perception for how to react to situations and in some cases how to behave. American Humane suggests that being a good role model for your child is one way to set a good example and prevent having to discipline frequently. Instilling discipline in a child from a young age will help her learn correct behavior through restraint and behavior modification.
Physical Discipline
Some parents choose to alter their children’s behavior by spanking or physically restraining them. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Family Guide states that physical discipline works initially but repeated discipline can become less effective if repeated. The website also states that physical discipline can instill anger in a child and he may carry the anger and take it out on his own children or spouse when he’s older. There are still some places that believe physical discipline or corporal punishment is permissible, such as in public schools. The Family Education website shows that some states still allow for corporal punishment in schools such as Alabama, Idaho and Texas.
Verbal Discipline
Parents use verbal discipline to reprimand children or teach them right from wrong. When parents are angry, verbal discipline can sometimes cross the line. A Healthy Me suggests using The American Academy of Pediatrics RETHINK method to keep discipline in perspective. Recognize how you feel, empathize with how the child feels, think of a different way to handle the situation, hear exactly what the child is saying, integrate love instead of angry thoughts, notice your physical reaction to anger and keep your attention focused on the present situation.
Consistency
Most parents agree that consistency is integral to good discipline. Kids Health suggests that being consistent with discipline will help children stick to the rules better. Parents should reaffirm their verbal discipline and follow through with consequences if children disobey or break the rules. Remaining consistent with your children if they continue poor behavior will teach them how to respect authority, self-worth, discipline and good manners.
Outcome
A parent should never make a child feel inadequate or hurt her feelings and by no means physically hurt her. Child rearing includes positive discipline techniques that result in a productive and successful adult. SAMHSA’s National Mental Health Information Center states that parents should discipline their children in a fair, constructive and consistent manner and choose the right type of discipline that is effective for their child.
About this Author
Julie Boehlke is a seasoned copywriter and content creator based in the Great Lakes state. She is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists. Boehlke has more than 10 years of professional writing experience on topics such as health and wellness, green living, gardening, genealogy, finances, relationships, world travel, golf, outdoors and interior decorating. She has also worked in geriatrics and hospice care.
