The discipline of children: alternatives to smacking

Abstract

"The discipline of children: alternatives to smacking" identifies the alternatives to smacking promoted by parent-educators, and examines why parents reject smacking, and which alternative methods they use. Physical punishment of children by their parents is permitted in New Zealand, but in recent years there has been public debate over the desirability of smacking, and promotion of alternatives. A feminist approach underlies the research. Most parenting work is done by women, however the research did not exclude men. Use of alternatives to smacking in childrearing is considered to be liberatory. Learning and using parenting skills meets a practical need of parents to do their work effectively and harmoniously. Qualitative research methods were used. Thirteen parent-educators and nine parents in the Wellington area were interviewed, mostly well-educated pakeha. Two focus group interviews were conducted with parent-educators working in a range of situations. In-depth personal interviews were conducted with eight women and one man, most of whom had responded to a newspaper item seeking non-smacking parents. Other participants were found through personal contacts. Their children's ages ranged from one to 13 and there was a range of family types. Full consents were obtained, and close attention given to ethical considerations. Correspondence and consent forms are given as appendixes. A full discussion of the two research methods is included, along with critical reflection on the researcher's use of them. The findings are illustrated by extensive quotations from participants. Scholarly literature on problems of smacking, its connection to other violence and its implications for the individual and for society is reviewed. Items in the popular parenting literature mentioned by research participants are also reviewed. Difficulties of definition are discussed. Parent-educators offer different approaches depending on the type of clients they see. A positive view of parents is a basic principle. Parent-educators were concerned that parents are not well-informed about child development. Communication skills are considered important; talking to the child and encouraging the expression of feelings. A range of specific techniques is modelled, advocated and taught. Parents have a positive view of children. They reject smacking as either violent in itself or leading to violence. All but one were smacked themselves as children. Only one has not sought information on childrearing. These parents talk to their children, most encourage them to express feelings. They use a range of techniques to set limits and develop good behaviour. In spite of their strongly-held views, all the parents had at some time smacked a child, either as a policy now rejected, or in "lashing out" at a moment of stress or anger. Suggestions are given as to how ideas about using alternatives to smacking could be disseminated. Recommendations conclude the report: supporting a media campaign, education about parenting, better services for parents and families, and repeal of S.59 of the Crimes Act.