Citation

Wissow LS, Roter D. Pediatrics 1994; 94(4 Pt 2): 587-593.

Affiliation

Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD.

Comment In:

Pediatrics. 1995 Oct;96(4 Pt 1):793-4; author reply 794-5

Copyright

(Copyright © 1994, American Academy of Pediatrics)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

7936883

Abstract

Corporal punishment is widely practiced despite evidence of its harm to children. Clinicians can more effectively counsel alternatives if they: are clear in their own minds about the risks of corporal punishment and its boundaries with reportable child maltreatment; appreciate parents' justifications for corporal punishment and offer corresponding alternatives; demonstrate their interest and expertise in matters of child behavior and family dynamics; practice communication techniques that elicit discussion of psychosocial topics and facilitate mutual problem solving; let parents take the lead in tailoring alternative disciplinary strategies to the family's unique needs; start early helping parents understand child behavior in general and their child's temperament and development in particular. Clinicians as a group should demonstrate a united stand against the use of violence within families. Both undergraduate and continuing medical education should involve training in communication skills in general and problem-solving techniques in particular. Pediatricians need more time during their training to learn about child behavior and family dynamics.

Language: en