uated tactics (i.e.: hitting, paddling, slapping, forcing a child to hold bodily waste and forcing a child to remain still in one spot), that are known to be harmful and developmentally inappropriate speaks in his studies of our societys failure to acknowledge the link between corporal punishment and later problems such as crime, violence and mental illness. If society were to acknowledge that corporal punishment is a harmful practice, then it would have to admit: 1). That society as a whole and as individuals have been wrong; 2). That society as a whole and individually is collectively responsible for many social ills; 3). That the legal rights of children need to be redefined; 4). That childrens minds and bodies need to be respected as adults minds and bodies are respected; 5). That a total change in child rearing methods would be due; 6). That the harmful effects of punishment in ALL areas of society need to be reconsidered.In 1979, Sweden took the lead in ending violence towards children by passing a nation-wide no corporal punishment law. Since then, Finland, Denmark, Norway, Austria, Cyprus, Italy, Croatia and Latvia have passed similar laws. Interestingly, in Sweden, parents are generally more secure in their parenting because of the law and have come to develop positive child guidance methods. If a parent spanks a child, instead of being arrested, the government offers assistance. Resorting to violence is a sign that a parent needs help. Instead of being afraid of the law, in general, many parents feel they can request support if needed. The thought of never being able to hit a child seems absurd to many Americans. Yet, the thought of hitting a spouse is regarded with shock and uproar. If society provides protection for adults against violence, but not children, society is giving the impression that children are regarded as lesser beings, much like what was thought about african-american people in the 1800s.However, In America, ...
