Is it okay to spank?

Jan 5·1 min read

This seems to be the debate that never ends. My parents spanked me, I turned out fine. But my wife is totally against it and says there's better ways. We haven't done it with our kids but sometimes when they're completely defiant I'm tempted. Looking for some biblical perspective on discipline that goes beyond just following whatever the current parenting trends are. How do you guys approach correction while staying rooted in Scripture?

5 comments351 views

Comments(5)

JJay K.New DadJan 5

I grew up getting spanked and swore I wouldn't do it. Then my 3 year old did something genuinely dangerous and I swatted his butt once without thinking. Felt awful about it. Still trying to figure out my own approach honestly.

EEli L.RegularJan 6

We haven't spanked and honestly it's not like we're letting them run wild. Time out, loss of privileges, natural consequences, that stuff works just fine. Different strokes though.

SSawyer N.RegularJan 6

The research on this has come pretty far in the last 20 years. Worth reading if you get a chance instead of just going with what your parents did. Not saying one way is right but there's actual data now.

MMitchell R.RegularJan 5

Your wife brings up a valid point probably. Even if spanking didn't hurt you, there might be better ways to handle things. Worth the conversation.

BBrad T.New DadJan 8

This is such a loaded question because everyone thinks they turned out fine but we're all just raising our kids the way we were raised by default. I don't spank but not judging anyone who does. Just conscious about it mostly.