More Than Half Of British Parents Believe In Smacking Children
A new survey has revealed that more than half British parents believe in smacking as a form of discipline [Photo: Rex Features]
Earlier this week we revealed that smacking children in the UK could be banned if a UN inquiry ruled in favour of making the parenting practice illegal.
But, with over half of British parents believing that smacking children is an effective form of discipline, we’re guessing there will be quite a lot of UK-based mums and dads who might have something to say if the practice is outlawed.
As part of an ongoing research into British parenting, a new survey by Voucher Codes Pro of 2,186 British parents has revealed two thirds of them admit to believing in the concept of smacking their children, but only a third (35%) have actually used the method.
Common reasons why parents who thought smacking was effective but had chosen not to use the method were ‘I feel there are other equally effective or better methods available’ (61%) and ‘my partner does not agree with smacking’ (57%). And it seems more than half (51%) were ‘worried about what people would think’ if they smacked their child.
Though 61% of parents believe in it only a third have actually used smacking [Photo: Rex Features]
The most popular forms of discipline used by parents is the naughty step, followed by being sent to their rooms and the increasingly popular putting children on a tech ban.
George Charles, spokesperson for Voucher Codes Pro said of the survey results:
“We were surprised to see how many parents agree that smacking works; the important thing is that they don’t give in to it! Parents are not perfect, but losing their temper is never a good thing for a child, no matter how much they may be pushing the boundaries.”
“The debate has come into question a lot over recent years as to whether or not it’s acceptable and to what extent, especially as it used to be so common. Times have changed now and so has the law; there are all kinds of experts now offering other solutions, as well as their opinions on smacking. The naughty step, confiscating items and cancelling pocket money are all great ways of showing your child that you mean business and you’re the boss, without having to lay a hand on them.”
Would you use smacking as a form of disciplining your children? Let us know @YahooStyleUK
