Spare the rod, spoil the child? : A literature review of outcomes of physical punishment in relation to recent changes to Maltese Law

Abstract

A literature review of outcomes of physical punishment in children confirms the polarised views resulting from various studies. This is mainly attributed to the limitations in the methodology and study designs used, confounding factors that were unaccounted for and the different ways in which physical punishment was defined by researchers. Researchers that provide evidence to discourage the use of physical punishment highlight the risk that this mode of discipline can easily cross over to physical abuse. This is challenged by other researchers who argue that alternative disciplinary techniques investigated with similar analyses to physical punishment have similar outcomes. Malta recently became one of the 39 countries worldwide that outlawed the use of physical punishment in children, in keeping with the United Nations Convention of the Rights of the Child. The focus of legally banning the use of physical punishment is not to increase the number of parental prosecutions but to safeguard children and adopt a policy of zero tolerance towards any violence against them. Our role as health professionals should be in supporting and educating parents, including those from a different cultural background, in becoming authoritative parents that are able to discipline their children in an effective and nurturing manner, away from using any form of violence. Successful evidence based parental intervention programmes exist that may help provide these necessary skills. Health professionals should also adopt a child centred approach whereby the child’s views are considered and any allegation made taken seriously. Training in safeguarding children is recommended for all professionals who come into contact with children and families.