Time out, extra chores and taking away privileges are more useful forms of disciplining naughty children than spanking or hitting, according to a study on Wednesday.

An estimated 94 percent of parents use some form of corporal punishment to teach their toddlers right from wrong, according to research studies. But psychologists say it could lead to later emotional and behavioral problems.

Even children who were only smacked occasionally are more likely to show signs of depression or lower self-esteem.

“The key is consistency. Using something like corporal punishment that seems severe at best doesn’t help and can put a child at risk for problems,” said Dr Paul Frick, of the University of New Orleans in Louisiana.

Source: Scientific American
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