The results of a new survey suggest that individuals who were spanked as children face a greater risk for certain mental health problems later in life. The survey, which included over 8,300 adults, revealed that 55% were spanked during childhood at least a few times each year. Those who were spanked were 37% more likely to have attempted suicide and about 30% more likely to have abused drugs during their lives. The findings add to previous research showing both the physical and mental health dangers of this form of discipline. Researcher Dr. Andrew Grogan-Kaylor adds, “And there’s almost no literature suggesting spanking has positive effects.”
Child Abuse & Neglect, September 2017