Physical punishment: an unnecessary risk to children

Using physical punishment to control, guide or correct the behavior of children has long been practised in Western culture. "Spare the rod and spoil the child," recite its advocates, both misquoting and misinterpreting the biblical proverb. In recent years, child care experts, health care practitioners and parents have begun questioning the practice of physical punishment and considering its role in child abuse. Child abuse, a form of family violence, is a major public health issue with far-reaching effects and costs and many implications for health policy, prevention and promotion strategies. Because nurses are often called upon to provide guidance and advice on parenting and discipline, we should be aware of the issues and risks of physically punishing children.